What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
Accessible version : https :// www . cdc . gov / coronavirus / 2019-ncov / vaccines / expect / after . html
COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19 . You may have some side effects , which are normal signs that your body is building protection . These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities , but they should go away in a few days . Some people have no side effects .
Common side effects
On the arm where you got the shot :
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
Throughout the rest of your body :
• Tiredness • Chills
• Headache • Fever
• Muscle pain • Nausea
Helpful tips
If you have pain or discomfort after getting your vaccine , talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter medicine , such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen .
To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot :
• Apply a clean , cool , wet washcloth over the area .
• Use or exercise your arm .
When to call the doctor
To reduce discomfort from fever :
• Drink plenty of fluids .
• Dress lightly .
In most cases , discomfort from fever or pain is normal . Contact your doctor or healthcare provider :
• If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
• If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days
Remember
• Side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities , but they should go away in a few days .
Ask your vaccination provider about getting started with v-safe
Use your smartphone to tell CDC about any side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine . You ’ ll also get reminders if you need a second dose
Learn more about v-safe . www . cdc . gov / vsafe
• With some COVID-19 vaccines , you will need 2 shots in order to get the most protection . You should get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot , unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get it .
• You will only need 1 shot of the viral vector COVID-19 vaccine , Johnson & Johnson ’ s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine .
• It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination . COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until about two weeks after your second shot . For COVID-19 vaccines that require 1 shot , it takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build protection .
• After you are fully vaccinated , you may be able to start doing some things you had stopped doing because of the pandemic . Visit CDC ’ s website for the latest recommendations . www . cdc . gov / coronavirus / vaccines .
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