The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious malady brought out by the SARS-CoV 2 virus. Injections provided by the government are a simple, effective, and safe way for COVID-19 prevention. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “it uses your body’s natural defenses to build resistance to specific infections and makes your immune system stronger.”
Here are three things you should do after taking the COVID-19 vaccine:
#1 Stay at the vaccination site for at least fifteen to thirty minutes
Immediately after getting your vaccine shot, you will be required to remain at the health facility for observation, which can last between 15 to 30 minutes, to make sure that you do not experience any severe or rare side effects like itching, fainting, vomiting, allergic reactions, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Having you stay at the vaccination site right after getting your vaccine is a safety precaution in case you experience rare side effects – so qualified help will be on hand and health workers will be available to assist you.
#2: Expect side effects to last for a few days
Side effects happen when you administer any type of drug or medicine into your body and experiencing these are signs that your body is already building protection from the COVID-19.
Some of the common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include soreness or redness around the injection site, fatigue, mild fever, headaches, and muscle or joint aches. After taking your vaccine, make sure to go home and rest – you may also take paracetamol when needed.
The COVID-19 vaccine side effects should last less than a week. If it extends more than seven days, immediately contact a health professional. This way, they can treat you immediately and, if needed, conduct a possible investigation if the adverse effects of the vaccine have unnatural effects on your body.
#3: Make sure to schedule your next COVID vaccine
Most of the COVID-19 vaccine brands available to the public require at least 2 doses (and booster shots) to maximize their effectiveness. Second doses are usually given four to twelve weeks after your initial vaccine.
Make sure to ask your healthcare provider, or check your vaccination card, for the date of your next doses. Once you have your second dose or booster schedule, prepare for it immediately. Set a calendar, file your work leave, and strengthen your body days before your schedule. Most vaccine brands require you to get your next doses on time so that the effect does not lapse.
Pro Tip: Do not forget to bring your card whenever you go out. Government policies in the Philippines require individuals to have one before allowing people to enter public establishments.
Take your COVID-19 vaccines as this remains on the most essential and most effective prevention against the disease. Once you’re vaccinated, you will likely experience mild to no symptoms if you contract the infectious disease compared to unvaccinated individuals. In the end, it is better to take necessary preventive measures to give yourself and the people around you boosted protection against the pandemic.
For more tips on how to protect yourself from COVID-19, follow our social media accounts @SourcefitPH.
