If you decide to get vaccinated, the process is fairly easy. After making your appointment, the doctor or nurse will ask about your medical history to make sure the vaccine is right for you.
Once you have been medically cleared, you will be given the vaccine and asked to wait for a minimum of 15 minutes to make sure there is no adverse reaction.
Within a few hours, some people experience short-term side effects. These side effects are normal and are signs that your immune system is building antibodies to help protect you. These symptoms could include:
– Soreness or swelling in your arm
– Tiredness
– Headache
– Fever
– Chills
The side effects may impact your daily activities, but they shouldn’t last more than 2-3 days. If they continue or get worse, call your doctor.
Even if you have these types of effects after your first shot, it’s important to make sure you get the second one, unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get a second shot.
Also, keep in mind that your body takes time to build immunity. You will not be fully protected against COVID-19 until 2 weeks after your final shot.
As with any vaccine, if you have any questions, please speak with your doctor.
SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect/after.html (CDC)
Updated 12/16/2021
