6 Things to Know About the COVID Vaccine

COVID-19 has globally affected citizens all around the world, and with no sight of the pandemic ending after a year, a vaccine has finally been developed to combat COVID-19. However, new vaccines aren’t created every day, so naturally, there are several concerns about the vaccine. Here are six things you should know about the COVID-19 vaccine. 

1. The COVID-19 vaccination requires 2 doses and will protect you from the COVID-19 virus. 

You may have to receive a second shot 3-4 weeks after your first shot to get the maximum protection the vaccine can possibly offer.  

2. Safety is a top priority for the COVID-19 vaccine.  

The U.S vaccine safety system ensures that all vaccines are as safe as possible. The CDC has developed a new tool that acts as an additional layer of safety monitoring, to increase the ability to detect any safety issues with COVID-19 vaccines. The tool, called v-safe, is a new smartphone-based health checker for people who receive COVID-19 vaccines.  

3. There is a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine in the United States, but supply will increase in the weeks to come.  

The goal is to have the vaccine become readily available to all citizens, however there is currently only a limited supply. As soon as the vaccine is widely available, several thousand vaccine providers will offer the COVID-19 vaccine in doctors’ offices, retail pharmacies, hospitals, and federal quality health centers.  

4. The CDC is making recommendations for who should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine first when supplies are limited.  

To help guide decisions on how to efficiently distribute the limited supply of the COVID-19 vaccine, the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have published recommendations for which groups should be vaccinated first.  

5. There may be mild side effects after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, this is a normal sign of the body building protection against the virus. 

You may experience flu-like symptoms that affect your ability to do daily activities, but this should go away within a few days. Common side effects such as pain and swelling around the area of vaccination may occur, along with fever, chills, fatigue, and headache. To reduce pain and discomfort, please be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and to dress lightly to reduce irritation at the vaccination site.  

6. The COVID-19 vaccine is one of many important tools to help us end the pandemic. 

It is important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop the pandemic, such as covering your mouth and nose with a mask while around others, doing your best to stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoiding large crowds, washing your hands often, and avoiding touching your eyes, mouth, and ears. As we learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, these tools are the best resources for keeping you and your loved ones safe.