COVID cases continue to surge throughout the US. With the holiday season now behind us, and many people choosing to travel, the numbers are expected to climb even higher.
To stop this pandemic, along with mask wearing, social distancing, and practicing proper hygiene, getting vaccinated is a critical component in the fight to protect your health and prevent you from getting the disease.
Vaccines are a proven, safe method, that works with your body’s natural defenses to prepare it to fight the virus, if you are exposed. Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19. Experts also believe getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get infected. It is important to know the benefits of getting the vaccine, and like other vaccines, taking the COVID vaccines cannot give you the disease itself.
The CDC provides an overview of things to keep in mind while awaiting your vaccine appointment:
- The Vaccines are Safe
The U.S. vaccine safety system, which includes the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensures the safety, effectiveness, and availability of vaccine. All the COVID-19 vaccines that are being used have gone through the same safety tests and meet the same standards as any other vaccines produced through the years.
- There will be different types of COVID-19 vaccines available.
There are now a few vaccine options, depending on where you live could be the basis of which vaccine you get. The vaccines will most likely be given in two separate shots, at least three weeks after the initial shot.
Preparing for Your Vaccine Appointment
Because COVID-19 is a new disease with new vaccines, there are many questions about what happens before, during, and after your appointment to get vaccinated. The following tips from the CDC will help you know what to expect:
- Before Getting the Vaccine
Before making an appointment, check to see if you’re eligible to get the vaccine. Many states are following similar vaccination protocols and you may not be eligible for a few more months.
When you do get the vaccine, you must cover your mouth and nose with a mask, be sure not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Stay at least 6 feet away from others while inside and waiting in lines.
- When You Get Vaccinated
You should receive a vaccination card or printout that tells you what COVID-19 vaccine you received, the date you received it, and where you received it.
You should receive a paper or electronic version of a fact sheet that tells you more about the specific COVID-19 vaccine you are being offered. Each authorized COVID-19 vaccine has its own fact sheet that contains information to help you understand the risks and benefits of receiving that specific vaccine.
All people who get a COVID-19 vaccine should be monitored on-site for any rare severe allergic reactions.
- After Vaccination
With most COVID-19 vaccines, you will need two shots for it to work properly. You may have some mild side-effects, from sore muscles, feeling tired, or mild fever. Don’t panic, these reactions mean the vaccine is working to help teach your body how to fight COVID-19 if you are exposed. For most people, these side effects will last no longer than a day or two. If these persist, then you should seek medical attention.
Keeping Safe
Even after you get your vaccine, you will need to keep wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, washing your hands often, and staying at least 6 feet away from other people you do not live with. This gives you and others the best protection from catching the virus.
Experts are still researching how long the vaccine will provide protection, so it’s important to continue following the guidelines from CDC and your health department. Also, since the vaccination process will be staggered, not everyone will get vaccinated right away, following the standard safety protocols will provide more protection for yourself and others.
We’re Here to Help
In these challenging times, the risk of exposure is more prevalent than ever. We offer the following safety service options:
COVID-19 CONSULTING BUNDLE – Written directive/policy on requirements which can be either a corporate policy or a site-specific policy.
COVID-19 TRAINING (INFECTION CONTROL WEBINAR) – We offer Open Enrollment Classes and Private Company Sponsored Classes made available at your convenience.
COVID19 TESTING – We now offer COVID-19 Testing Services For Colleges, Universities, Private Companies, And Public Agencies
If you have concerns about your workforce and coronavirus, please contact us today to learn about steps you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your employees.