1. Common Reactions After Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine
Experiencing side effects after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is normal and indicates that your body is producing antibodies to fight against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. There is no cause for undue concern.
Some common reactions after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine include:
- The area where the vaccine was administered may become red or swollen, which is the most common reaction.
- You may experience symptoms such as fatigue, headache, chills, fever, and lethargy.
- In rare cases, fainting may occur immediately after vaccination, often due to excessive worry or tension before receiving the vaccine.
These reactions may or may not occur and can vary from person to person.
2. Ways to Reduce Side Effects After Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine
The side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine can impact our daily activities. To help reduce these side effects, you can consider the following measures:
- Consult your doctor about using pain relievers such as Ibuprofen, Paracetamol (Acetaminophen), or Aspirin after vaccination, if permitted.
- Apply warm or cold compresses to the vaccinated area.
- Stay hydrated and take vitamin C supplements to boost your immune system.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing to alleviate discomfort from fever.
- Engage in gentle exercises for the vaccinated arm to relieve muscle tension, but avoid overexertion.
3. Instances to Seek Medical Attention After Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine
In most cases, the aforementioned reactions will subside within a few days. However, if you experience the following situations, it is important to promptly contact a doctor or visit the nearest medical facility for examination:
- Worsening redness and swelling in the vaccination area after 24 hours.
- Persistent side effects that last beyond a few days.
- Signs of an allergic reaction.
These are severe symptoms that may pose a risk, so immediate medical attention is necessary.
4. Important Notes When Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine
When receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, it is essential to be aware of and take note of the following points:
- Provide the screening doctor with complete and accurate information about your current health status.
- Side effects after vaccination typically resolve within a few days.
- Both the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine require two doses for optimal immune response. It is recommended to receive the second dose even if you experience side effects after the first dose, unless instructed otherwise by a doctor.
- The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine requires only one dose to provide full protection.
- For vaccines administered in two doses, optimal protection is achieved two weeks after the second dose.
References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Last updated: 28/07/2021.
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