Receiving Your COVID-19 Vaccination: Before, During, and After

Everyone knows that three companies have come out with vaccines for the Covid-19 virus, but not everyone knows what you should do before, during and after while considering getting vaccinated. Here are some tips and tricks on how to prepare for your Covid-19 vaccine. Also, make sure to check out the CDC website for more tips and tricks.

Before getting the Vaccine:

Before you get your Covid-19 vaccine, there is research that should be completed:

• Look up if you are even eligible for the vaccine in your state.
• Do research on which vaccine is best for you (as there are 3 different ones).
• Research if you would have an allergic reaction to the shot.

There are also various steps you should take before getting the shot:

• Take allergy medication if you think you might have an allergic reaction.
• It is recommended that you do not take over the counter medications such as ibuprofen before because it can interfere with your immune system.
• Do not drink alcohol before.
• Do not exercise for 2 hours before and after getting the vaccine.
• Prime your immune system with vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamins C, A, and D3, zinc, etc.
• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Drink a lot of water. 
• Review your appointment in your confirmation email to ensure you are arriving at the right time and place.

During the Vaccine:

While you are at the site getting your Covid-19 Vaccine shot:

• Wear a mask while getting vaccinated and stay 6 feet away from others.
• Make sure that you are not getting vaccinated within 14 days of another vaccine.
• Make sure to wear proper clothing that will provide easy access to your arms.
• Use your non-dominant arm for vaccination, as it will be sore. Also, make sure to not tense your arm as it will increase muscle soreness afterwards.

After getting the Vaccine: 

• Stay on site for 15 minutes afterwards, to ensure that you do not experience any immediate side effects. 
• Make sure to keep your vaccination record card if you need to receive a second dose.
• Still keep precautions in public places by wearing a mask and staying 6 feet apart from others.
• Move your arm around to help reduce soreness and drink plenty of water to help with any side effects. 

Common Side Effects after getting the Vaccine: 

• Common side effects on the arm where you got the shot: pain, redness, and swelling.
• Common side effects throughout the rest of your body: tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, or nausea.

Common ways to help reduce pain and symptoms: 

• To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot: apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area and use or exercise your arm.
• To reduce discomfort from fever: drink plenty of fluids and dress lightly.

Everyone experiences these symptoms differently, or not at all. You should call your doctor with any additional questions and concerns or if your sideeffects do not go away after a few days or if there is redness of tenderness where you got the shot after 24 hours. It could take up to two weeks for the vaccine to build up fully in your body. Even though you are vaccinated, please do not forget to continue to follow CDC guideline rules to ensure your safety and of those around you.