What to Expect When You Get the COVID-19 Vaccine
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 229,000,000 people have contracted the virus and more than 4.7 million have died. With the surge of the Delta variant once again filling up hospital ICUs and leading to long-term side effects or worse, an increasing number of people are becoming interested in joining the ranks of the nearly 2.5 billion people who are already fully vaccinated. If you aren’t already vaccinated, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after you schedule your shot.
Preparing For Your Vaccination
There are several things you can do to prepare yourself for your vaccination appointment. First, you should prepare for the fact that you may experience side effects. Take the day after your shot off of work to recuperate, and prepare your immune system by taking a product like Thrive. You may be asking yourself “What is Thrive?” It is an immune-boosting program that gives you more energy and may even improve your mood. It is especially helpful after vaccination.
In addition to preparing your immune system, it is important to follow some other steps. On the day of your vaccine appointment, take your medications and eat as you usually do. If you can, wear a short-sleeved or sleeveless shirt that will speed up the vaccination process. Ensure you have your driver’s license or state ID with you as well. Have it ready when you head into your appointment, as it will speed things up for you and anyone waiting after you.
During the Vaccination Appointment
When you arrive at your vaccination appointment, you’ll fill out a small questionnaire about the vaccine. The process of getting the shot is quick, causes little pain, and is just like any other vaccine you’ve ever received. After you receive the shot, you’ll be scheduled for your second dose if necessary. Vaccines are not interchangeable, so you’ll receive the same brand you did for your first dose. Your second dose will be 3-4 weeks after your first one. You’ll also receive a vaccination card, which you should bring with you for your second dose. Consider keeping a photo of it in your phone, too, as some places are requiring vaccinations. Before you leave your vaccination appointment, you will be asked to wait for about 15 minutes. This is because allergic reactions happen within that time frame. If you have one, there will be medical staff onsite who can assist you. However, allergic reactions are extremely rare.
The Days After You Receive the Vaccine
In the hours after your vaccine appointment, you may begin to experience some side effects. Studies show that you’re more likely to experience them after the second dose than after the first, though. Common side effects include pain and swelling at the site where you were injected, headache, chills, fever, and muscle or joint pain. Even if you don’t experience any of these symptoms, you are likely to be very fatigued for a day or two after the shot. Many people liken the side effects to feeling like you have the flu for a couple of days. Keep in mind that these side effects are evidence that the vaccine is activating your immune system and doing what it is meant to do. If you experience side effects not on this list, or if you are still having side effects after four days, see your doctor.
Remember, getting the vaccine doesn’t mean you should stop social distancing or wearing a mask. People may still contract COVID-19 after getting the mask. However, the symptoms are often much more mild, do not last as long, and are not as likely to lead to hospitalization, long-term side effects, or worse. Additionally, continuing to wear a mask protects immuno compromised people or other individuals who may not be able to receive the vaccine and are therefore more likely to contract the disease.
Conclusion
Join the billions of people who are protecting their health and their communities. Schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment and then grab something to help your immune system bounce back after receiving your shot.
