Vaccine facts from your public health department

Published

Researchers around the world have been working at record speed to develop vaccines to combat COVID-19. Less than a year after the start of the pandemic, that goal is now a reality. The U.S. is among the countries that have begun vaccinating people against the virus. Two vaccines, one from Moderna and another from Pfizer-BioNTech, are now being distributed worldwide. Both vaccines need two shots to be effective. In December, both vaccines received an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the Food and Drug Administration.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccination options in the Mille Lacs Band Community, call the Ne-la-Shing Clinic at 320-630-0855.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine give you COVID-19? No. The COVID-19 vaccines currently being developed don’t use the live virus that causes COVID-19.

Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I have a history of severe allergic reactions? If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to other vaccines or injectable medications, ask your doctor if you should get the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have a severe allergic reaction after getting the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, don’t get the second dose.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women get the COVID-19 vaccine? There is no research on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Talk to your health care provider about the risks and benefits.

Is there anyone who should not get a COVID-19 vaccine? There is no COVID-19 vaccine yet for children under age 16. COVID-19 vaccination might not be recommended for people with certain health conditions. Ask your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Can I stop taking safety precautions after getting the COVID-19 vaccine? Keep in mind that it will take a few weeks for your body to build immunity after getting a COVID-19 vaccination. As a result, it’s possible that you could become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or after being vaccinated. Experts need to learn more about the protection that the vaccine provides before changing safety recommendations. Factors such as how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading will also affect future recommendations. Information on this page taken from the Mayo Clinic website at www.mayoclinic.org.

Possible Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine: The vaccine can cause mild side effects after the first or second dose, including: • Pain, redness or swelling where the shot was given. • Fever • Fatigue • Headache • Muscle Pain • Chills • Joint pain.

You’ll likely be monitored for a few minutes after getting a COVID-19 vaccine to make sure you don’t have an immediate reaction. Most side effects happen within the first three days after vaccination and typically last only one to two days.
Source: mayoclinic.org.