About the COVID-19 Vaccine:
A Rundown of Things You Should Know
By: Felix González
How do Vaccines Work?
Vaccines contain weakened or inactive parts of a particular organism (antigen) that trigger an immune response within the body. Newer vaccines, however, typically contain the blueprint for producing antigens rather than an antigen itself.
Regardless of whether a vaccine contains an antigen or its blueprint, these substances will not cause the disease in the person receiving the vaccine, instead, a vaccination will prompt a response from their immune system similar to what would be a first reaction to the actual pathogen one is being vaccinated against.
Certain vaccines require multiple doses, given weeks or months apart. This is sometimes needed to allow for the production of long-lived antibodies and development of memory cells. In this way, the body is trained to fight the specific disease-causing organism, building up memory of the pathogen so as to rapidly fight it if and if the body were to be exposed to this same pathogen in the future.
What Are Some Side Effects of the Pfizer Vaccine?
· Pain in the arm where the vaccine was administered
· Swelling, stiffness, or redness around the area the vaccine was administered
· The following are also symptoms that have been reported:
o Tiredness
o Headaches
o Muscle pain
o Chills
o Fever
o Nausea
Important Note: Just because some people have experienced some of the aforementioned symptoms does not mean you will necessarily experience them as well. Reactions may differ depending on various factors, including age and type of vaccine among others.
Can you still carry Covid-19 being vaccinated?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a person who is vaccinated against COVID-19 can still be infected with or “carry” the virus that causes COVID-19 while not feeling sick or having symptoms. Experts call this “asymptomatic infection.”
Tips on How to Manage Vaccine Side Effects:
It is very important that you talk to your doctor about taking over-the-counter medicine for discomfort or pain you may feel after getting the vaccine. Such medicines include:
· Ibuprofen
· Acetaminophen
· Aspirin
· Antihistamines
Important Note: It is not recommended to take any of these before getting vaccinated
To reduce pain and discomfort where you get the shot:
· Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area
· Use or exercise your arm
To reduce discomfort from fever:
· Drink plenty of fluids
· Dress lightly
Important Note: To get side effects is actually a good thing! That means that your body is building a resistance and the vaccine is working.
When Should You Contact a Doctor?
· If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot gets worse after 24 hours
· If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days
Want to Know More? Check out These Sources!
Interested Hearing Others’ Experiences With the Vaccine? Watch the Video Below!
Follow our Instagram to Stay Updated!
