The COVID-19 vaccine is finally here and becoming accessible thanks to mass vaccination sites, pharmacies, and other places offering it. However, some people are still concerned about receiving it due to the side effects.
For example, 88.7% of people under 55 report side effects with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. That sounds like a scarily large number.
The truth of the matter, however, is that these side effects are mild and fleeting. The Moderna side effects have similar statistics and yet only 0.6% of people, for example, reported that the side effects were serious.
If you’re worried about the COVID-19 vaccine side effects, read about them here and what you can do.
The Common Side Effects
The common side effects felt by receivers of the vaccine are:
- Fatigue
- Arm pain
- Headache
- Swelling and redness
- Chills
- Nausea
- Fever
It’s important to note that some of these side effects — such as arm pain — can be caused by the needle itself, and not the fact that you have specifically received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.
Many people are concerned that because the COVID-19 vaccine was released so quickly that the proper research into adverse effects hasn’t done, but extensive research has been done on its efficacy and anything that can go wrong. There’s no need to be worried about taking it despite the myths and misinformation that have been perpetuated.
Like with many vaccines, there is a chance of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This will usually occur very quickly after having the vaccine and if you’re concerned, the people administering it should be happy to let you wait on-site for a few minutes after receiving the vaccine to ensure you don’t need medical attention.
Although the pain and discomfort may be an inconvenience after receiving the vaccine, there is absolutely no evidence that any COVID-19 vaccine has ever contributed to a death.
What You Can Do
You may not be worried about dying from the COVID-19 vaccine but still worried about the pain and discomfort that comes after. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do.
Firstly, try to schedule your vaccine on a day that you can rest afterward. If you do suffer from fatigue and nausea then you can lie down and sleep it off, which will make the symptoms pass more quickly.
After having the vaccine administered, it should be fine to take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. If you’re experiencing pain or headaches, this might help alleviate the symptoms.
They should be temporary and last no more than a couple of days.
The COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects Are Nothing to Be Worried About
The COVID-19 vaccine side effects are intimidating to some who are nervous about the vaccine, but it’s important to remember that they’re nothing to worry about. Keep an eye on the state guidelines and when it’s your turn to be eligible, help save lives and get vaccinated against COVID-19.
For more health advice and information, check out the rest of our blog.