The COVID-19 vaccine is available to adults and children across the United States. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and works to protect you against COVID-19. Talk with your healthcare provider today if you’d like to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Do I need to get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have already had COVID?
Yes. Getting vaccinated adds another layer of protection for you. Even if you’ve had a previous infection, the vaccine acts as a booster that strengthens the immune response.
How do vaccines work?
Vaccines are key to preventing diseases. COVID-19 vaccines expose the body to material that prompts an immune response. The immune system builds antibodies that can fight the virus. Producing immunity can take a couple of weeks.
What happens when I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
The vaccine protects you from COVID-19 and helps make the illness less severe. Most side effects are mild and go away in a couple of days. This is normal and is your body’s way of showing you that it is building up protection against COVID-19.
What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?
You may experience mild side effects after getting the vaccine. These are mild and will go away.
- Pain at injection site
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Chills
- Fever
I just got the COVID-19 vaccine. Now what?
Continue to wear your mask, stay at least 6 feet apart, avoid crowds, wash your hands and stay home if you feel sick. Most COVID-19 vaccines require a second dose, so don’t forget to schedule your next dose.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine free?
Yes. You will not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for the vaccine, regardless of income or insurance coverage.
Do I need a flu shot if I’ve gotten the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes. It’s important to get both a flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine. Both work to protect you against different viruses.
Source: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/covid-19-vaccine/patient-education/
