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Now that COVID-19 vaccines are starting to become available for certain high risk groups, one of the concerns of public health officials is that some people might be dissuaded from taking the shot (or the booster) due to some of the unpleasant but temporary`side effects' that are getting a lot of attention in the media.
Many (but not all) recipients have reported injection site soreness, mild to moderate fever, and `flu-like' symptoms lasting a day or two after getting the vaccine. Often the reaction is stronger following the second shot.
On Sunday we looked at the CDC's V-Safe app, which will help them monitor the incidence and severity of post-injection reactions. The CDC describes V-Safe as:
V-safe is a smartphone-based tool that uses text messaging and web surveys to provide personalized health check-ins after you receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Through v-safe, you can quickly tell CDC if you have any side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Depending on your answers, someone from CDC may call to check on you and get more information. And v-safe will remind you to get your second COVID-19 vaccine dose if you need one.Your participation in CDC’s v–safe makes a difference — it helps keep COVID-19 vaccines safe.
Rather than let all of this come as a surprise, yesterday the CDC Published `What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine', along with an accompanying patient handout.
What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
Updated Dec. 14, 2020
COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.
Common side effects
On the arm where you got the shot:Throughout the rest of your body:
- Pain
- Swelling
Helpful tips
- Fever
- Chills
- Tiredness
- Headache
If you have pain or discomfort, talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot:
- Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area.
- Use or exercise your arm.
To reduce discomfort from fever:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Dress lightly.
When to call the doctor
In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:Remember
- If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
- If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days
- Side effects may feel like flu and even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.
- With most COVID-19 vaccines, you will need 2 shots in order for them to work. Get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot, unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get a second shot.
- It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until a week or two after your second shot.
It’s important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often.
Printable Handout for Vaccine Recipient
What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
PDF Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers to Give after Vaccination
We should get a much better read on the incidence, and severity, of these sorts of reactions in the weeks ahead. While undoubtedly unpleasant for some, the benefits COVID vaccination are expected to far outweigh any temporary discomfort.
But for maximum effect, a large portion of the population will have to be willing to be vaccinated.
