Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pang Yu Xian (M.B.B.S., Singapore)
The COVID-19 vaccine has been a game-changer in the fight against the pandemic, providing critical protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. As the world continues to navigate life with the virus, receiving the COVID vaccination remains an essential part of public health efforts. However, before getting vaccinated, there are key factors to consider.
These can help you understand what to expect, alleviate any concerns, and ensure you’re making the best decision for your health. Here are five important things to know before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
1. How the COVID-19 Vaccine Works
Before receiving the COVID vaccination, it’s helpful to understand how the vaccines work. The most common COVID-19 vaccines use advanced technologies like messenger RNA (mRNA) or viral vector platforms. Both types aim to teach the body’s immune system to recognize and fight off the virus.
mRNA vaccines, like the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, work by instructing cells to produce a harmless spike protein found on the surface of the virus. This protein triggers an immune response, creating antibodies that will fight the real virus if the person is exposed.
On the other hand, viral vector vaccines, such as AstraZeneca, use a modified version of a different virus (not the COVID-19 virus) to deliver instructions to cells, teaching the immune system to defend itself against the coronavirus.
What’s important to remember is that these vaccines do not contain live viruses, so they cannot cause COVID-19. Instead, they prepare your immune system for potential exposure to the virus, giving you protection without making you sick.
2. Possible Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Like other vaccines, the COVID vaccination may cause some side effects, but they are typically mild and short-lived. The most common side effects include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Chills
These side effects usually resolve within a few days and are generally a sign that the body is responding to the vaccine and building protection. To help manage discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended. Applying a cool compress to the injection site can also help reduce soreness.
While rare, some people may experience more serious side effects, such as severe allergic reactions. If you have a history of allergies, especially to vaccines or injectable medications, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider beforehand. They may advise you to stay at the vaccination site for an observation period of 15 to 30 minutes to monitor for any immediate reactions.
3. The Role of the Vaccine in Protecting Against Variants
As the pandemic continues, new variants of the virus, such as Delta and Omicron, have emerged. These variants have caused concern due to their ability to spread more easily and, in some cases, evade parts of the immune response. However, research has shown that the COVID vaccines remain effective in providing protection against severe disease and death caused by these variants.
While no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing infection, the COVID vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death—even if you do contract a variant. Moreover, vaccines are particularly valuable in limiting the spread of variants by reducing viral load in vaccinated individuals.
In response to the changing landscape of the virus, booster shots are being developed and administered to maintain immunity. Booster doses help to reinforce the body’s defense, especially for individuals at higher risk or those who received their initial doses months ago.
4. Why Booster Shots Are Important
Over time, immunity from the initial COVID vaccination may decrease, especially as new variants evolve. This is where booster shots come into play. Booster shots provide additional protection by strengthening the immune response. They are especially important for individuals who are immunocompromised, elderly, or at high risk of exposure due to their occupation.
The concept of booster shots isn’t new—many other vaccines, like those for tetanus and diphtheria, also require periodic boosters to maintain immunity. For COVID-19, receiving a booster shot helps keep the immune system primed to recognize and respond to both the original strain of the virus and new variants.
In some countries, health authorities are encouraging booster doses for everyone above a certain age or those with underlying health conditions. This means if you’ve received your initial doses months ago, it might be time to consider a booster shot to maintain your level of protection.
5. What to Expect Before and After Vaccination
On the day of your COVID vaccination, there are a few things you should be aware of. You may need to bring identification and proof of your appointment, depending on the vaccination site’s requirements. Additionally, make sure to wear a mask and follow any health protocols in place.
After receiving the shot, you’ll likely be asked to stay for 15 to 30 minutes for observation, especially if you’ve had allergic reactions in the past. Most side effects, if any, will occur within this time frame. Your healthcare provider will also inform you about when to schedule your second dose if your vaccine requires two doses.
It’s essential to continue practicing COVID-19 safety measures after vaccination, especially if you’re in a region with high transmission rates. While the vaccine offers robust protection, it may take a couple of weeks after the final dose for full immunity to develop.
Even after full vaccination, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk areas, maintaining physical distance, and practicing good hygiene are still recommended, especially in areas where new variants are spreading.
Conclusion
Getting the COVID vaccination is an important step in protecting yourself and your community from the virus. Understanding how the vaccine works, its potential side effects, and the importance of booster shots can help ensure that you’re well-prepared for the process. With emerging variants and the possibility of waning immunity over time, staying informed and up to date with vaccination recommendations is key to staying protected.
Stay Safe and Protected—Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine Today at Keystone Clinic & Surgery!
At Keystone Clinic & Surgery, we prioritize your health and safety. Whether it’s your first dose or a booster, our team is here to guide you through the process with care and expertise. Don’t wait—schedule your COVID-19 vaccination with us today and take a vital step towards safeguarding yourself and your loved ones.
References
Hopkinsmedicine.org. COVID-19 Vaccine: What You Need to Know. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know
Health.unl.edu. 7 Steps to Prepare for Your COVID-19 Vaccines. https://health.unl.edu/7-steps-prepare-your-covid-19-vaccines
Mayoclinic.org. COVID-19 Vaccine: Get the Facts. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-vaccine/art-20484859