what to do before during after getting the covid-19 vaccine
After a long, stressful encounter with the COVID-19 virus, the entire world is finally relieved to get access to the vaccines. Getting a Covid-19 vaccine is essential as it protects against the COVID-19 virus. The approved vaccines are carefully evaluated for safety and efficacy.
As you get jabbed at your turn, you must know the expected side effects and practice the safety protocols before and after vaccination. We have some crucial tips for you as you await your turn to be vaccinated.
Tips to follow before vaccination
1. Do not take the vaccine on an empty stomach. Eat well as you go for your vaccine dose. Include leafy vegetables, food rich in antioxidants that help boost immunity.
2. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
3. Get good, peaceful sleep at night. The role of a good night’s sleep in boosting immunity is scientifically proven.
4. If you regularly take over-the-counter aspirin or pain killers, you may continue. However, if you want to avoid side effects from the vaccine, do not take these medicines before taking the vaccine. (Once confirm with the doctor while taking the vaccine.)
5. Avoid excess alcohol intake as it may dehydrate you.
6. Inform people at work regarding your unavailability and plan your tasks accordingly so that you are not stressed about work as you visit the vaccination centre.
7. Be prepared to take any vaccine available at the centre at the given time. Remember, all vaccines have been proven safe and effective.
8. Wear a sleeveless or short-sleeved shirt or dress to facilitate getting the injection on your arm.
9. Cancel your appointment if you notice any Covid-like symptoms. You can rebook after 14 days of experiencing such symptoms. Talk to your doctor about this.
Tips to follow after vaccination:
1. After vaccination, stay seated at the vaccination center for 15-30 minutes. Health workers will monitor you for immediate reactions. Report if you feel dizzy or have nausea, vomiting, or any allergic reaction.
2. Drink plenty of fluids and keep your body hydrated after the vaccine dose.
3. Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking.
4. Soothe your arm. You may place a cool or wet washcloth on the area.
5. Swing your vaccinated arm to calm the inflammation.
6. Be prepared for some minor side effects as your body builds immune protection. These may go away in 1-2 days.
a) Pain and redness at the site of injection
b) Chills and mild fever
c) Headache
d) Fatigue and body ache
e) Joint and muscle pain
7. Take paracetamol if you have any of the above symptoms. If they last for more than a week, contact your doctor immediately.
8. Wear light clothes.
9. Download your vaccination certificate, mark your calendar for the second dose of the vaccine, and schedule an appointment.
10. After the second dose of the vaccine, you may experience similar symptoms seen after the first dose. If the side effects persist for more than 1-2 days, call your doctor.
11. Remember that the antibodies that develop after the second dose of the vaccine reach a protective level after 15 days. Hence, be careful; do not relax the preventive measures.
12. If you wish to take any other vaccine for a different medical condition, maintain a gap of at least 14 days after taking the Covid-19 vaccine.
13. It is also important to discuss with your doctor if you have been on immunosuppressants, such as methotrexate. Your doctor might put the medication on hold for two weeks after the Covid-19 vaccine.
Although you have received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, remember to take preventive measures, especially in public places. Remember that vaccination does not ensure complete immunity. So continue wearing masks and follow safe hygiene practices for self-protection and prevent virus transmission. Take both doses according to the schedule and encourage other people to get vaccinated. Stay safe, stay strong!
Conclusion:
Remember that the vaccine is merely a prick. Try to overcome your nervousness and anxiety while getting injected. Collect your certificate of vaccination or download it from the Co-Win site. Be responsible citizens, and get vaccinated when your turn comes.
Disclaimer:
The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
source: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/what-to-do-before-during-and-after-getting-the-covid-19-vaccine/