Time to get vaccinated! Here is everything you need to know, including a checklist. And it covers boosters, too.
Vaccines are safe. And they are effective. More, even though there are reported “breakthrough cases”, they substantially reduce symptoms. More, booster shots are now available for some, too.
How to get Vaccinated
There are many options. And many drug stores, Walmart and others provide it. And at no cost. Here are some methods:
This is all you need to know about vaccination prep. And it covers before, during and after your shot:
Before Vaccination
Mentally prepare. Expect to be tired after the shot. And prepare to drink extra fluids, too.
Medication. If you are currently taking prescription medications, please consult your doctor before the vaccination.
During Vaccination
Wear a mask. And follow key safety steps.
Vaccination card. Make sure to get a vaccination card. It will include your name and birthday. Also, the provider will list the vaccine maker and lot number, too. DO NOT get your card laminated until after receiving the second shot.
After Vaccination
Drink extra fluids. And avoid beverages that dehydrate such as soda, coffee and alcohol.
Continue to follow key safety steps. This includes wearing a mask when around others.
Schedule 2nd Dose. Unless you receive the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, you will need to receive a second shot. You should schedule it 3-4 weeks later.
Expect side effects. Many experience slight side effects from the vaccine. This is normal. And a good sign. The most common is exhaustion. But this usually lasts a day.
If they are more than mild such as shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.
2nd Dose
Vaccination card. Make sure to BRING your vaccination card with you. Also, make sure the clinic updates it to include information about the second shot.
You can get the card laminated after the second dose.
If you get sick. If you become sick between doses, reschedule the second dose.
Expect side effects. Many report experiencing more side effects after the second dose. And this is normal. But expect it.
Drink extra fluids. And avoid dehydrating beverages such as soda, coffee and alcohol.
Continue to follow key safety steps for two weeks. This includes wearing a mask when around others. And that is because it takes time for the vaccine to work.
Booster Shots
Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued authorization for boosters made by Pzizer-BioNTech.
Moreover, the FDA amended the emergency use authorization to include the booster. It a one-time, single dose. And it can only be administered at least six months after completion of the primary series.
This summer, saw a surge of the delta variant. And by early August surpassed 90% of new cases. Thus, the booster is key for some.
More, the authorization for boosters is currently limited to specific populations. They are:
- For individuals 65 years of age and older;
- Also individuals 18 through 64 years of age at high risk of severe COVID-19; and
- More, individuals 18 through 64 years of age whose frequent institutional or occupational exposure to the virus and puts them at high risk of serious complications.
According to the FDA, they followed the same approval process used for the vaccine.
Get vaccinated! Vaccines are both safe and effective. And they are key to halting the pandemic.
We published a similar article on August 24. And on September 22, we published an article focused on the recently approved booster shots.