You finally have a date to get your first COVID shot. You go into the center, check-in and are given a packet of information. In that packet of information, there is text about the shot you’re getting—and a list of potential side effects.
The idea of side effects can be worrying. Because if you look at the list, they sound an awful lot like COVID. Fever. Chills. Tiredness. Headache.
But health experts say: no need to worry. These symptoms are signs that the vaccine is working. That means your body’s immune system is learning how to build protection against a real COVID infection.
The most common side effect is pain or discomfort at the site of the shot. For this: the CDC recommends apply a cool wet cloth. You can also gently exercise your arm to relieve discomfort.
Another potential side effect is: A low fever. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and dress comfortably. Some people have reported body aches and headache.
But over fifty percent of those who’ve been given the Pfizer or Moderna shots have experienced NO side effects. So you don’t need side effects to know the vaccine is working.
A Gift for Storytelling with Hope Flanagan