The Good Life

How To Take Care Post-Vaccination

4 min read

•

May 29, 2021

During the Vaccination
Post Jab at the Vaccination Center

According to health experts, herd immunity would require at least 80-90% of the population to have COVID-19 immunity, either through prior infection or vaccination. The more people get vaccinated, the faster it will help all of us achieve herd immunity, and quicker it will help us get back to normal.

A massive vaccination drive has set the pace across the world, to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Vaccinating, right now, is a good way to achieve herd immunity.

However, most people are often confused about what to do and avoid - post-vaccination. So here’s a handy guide on how you can take care of yourself after getting the COVID-19 jab!

During the Vaccination

All vaccines, regardless of the manufacturer, are administered in the same way. The vaccine will be injected into your upper arm. Remember that it is just a small prick that could save your life. So if you are feeling nervous or anxious, just take slow deep breaths and look away from the needle. Ensure you keep your mask on during your appointment.

Post Jab at the Vaccination Center

Post the vaccine, everyone is kept under observation for around an hour to see if there are any sudden side effects. You may experience -

Some pain, swelling, and redness on the arm which is injected
Mild fever or chills
Headache
Tiredness/ Fatigue
Body Pain etc

But do not panic. The prevalence of the above symptoms is a sign that your body is fighting to build immune protection. These side effects are normal and could last up to 48 hours. These typically go away within a few days.

Moreover, the vaccination center will prescribe some medications (preferably Paracetamol) after the jab. Make sure you take the medication as directed/ instructed to avoid any kind of post-vaccination adverse reactions.

Prepare for the Potential Management of Anaphylaxis after COVID-19 Vaccination

In addition to the above side-effects - Anaphylaxis, an acute and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction has been reported rarely following COVID-19 vaccination.

People with a history of anaphylaxis due to any cause, should ensure their COVID-19 vaccination is trained in the treatment of anaphylaxis. The vaccinator should have rapid access to an emergency kit with adrenaline; the authority needs to be familiar with its dosage and administration.

When You Get Home

Even after you are home, the first 72 hours after the dose are crucial. So make sure you pay attention to your body. If you experience a severe allergic reaction or any kind of discomfort, consult your family doctor immediately.

Avoid Doing Strenuous Activities

Avoid doing strenuous activities for at least 5-6 days after getting the jab. Over-exerting yourself, or doing intense exercise isn't advisable for few days. Your body needs some time to rest and deliver a good vitalized immune response. So make sure you take a break from your hectic day-to-day activities for a few days.

Have a Healthy Diet Plan

Have a healthy diet and drink lots of water. Avoid junk food, greasy/spicy food, alcohol, and smoking for a few days. Eating well, pre and post-getting the shot will ensure that you stay fit and fine, without having to pop in any kind of medicines or painkillers.

Sleep Well

Ensure you get a good night's sleep. Several studies have shown that people who get a good night’s sleep before and after vaccination produce more virus-specific antibodies and virus-specific memory immune cells than those who do not get sufficient slumber. In other words, they appear more protected

Stay Home, Stay Safe

Getting vaccinated does not mean you will not get infected with COVID-19. It simply means that one will not be critically ill even if he/she contracts the virus. Vaccination, even though helpful only offers a certain degree of protection. Reinfection is still a real possibility that hasn't been ruled out yet. So even after getting vaccinated, you will have to avoid crowded places and maintain a 6 feet distance from people. Continue wearing a mask and follow basic hygiene to keep COVID-19 and related illnesses at bay.

Note: There are two doses of the vaccine and one gets completely immune after 2 weeks of 2nd dose. However, the use of two different vaccines is not recommended.

Taking the jab is the best step towards fighting the pandemic. Take it yourself and inspire the rest of your family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers, etc. to take it too. Talk about the process and how it made you feel.

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