What to do before and after your COVID-19 shot

As more people are proactively scheduling appointments to get vaccinated for COVID-19, many have questions about how to prepare for the vaccine. Here is some helpful information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with other medical experts, that can help you get ready for your shot and take care of yourself after you have been vaccinated.

1.  Talk with your primary care physician. If you have any concerns or anxiety about getting vaccinated, talk with your personal doctor who should be able to answer any questions you may have.

2.  Don’t take painkillers before your vaccination. The CDC recommends that you not take any over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen before vaccination because it is not known how these medications may affect how well the vaccine works or if they may decrease the vaccines response.

3.  Alcohol consumption. There are no recommendations related to alcohol avoidance, however, if you’re having side effects or systemic symptoms, it would be prudent to go ahead and pass on alcohol.

4.  Don’t get a tattoo or piercing just before or right after your vaccine. Wait a few weeks after your vaccination if you plan to commemorate the moment because of the similarities in side effects in the vaccines and the tattoos. Both can cause arm soreness, pain, and redness., as well as a low- grade fever within the first 48 hours. Avoid getting a tattoo on the same arm as your injection to prevent a local infection. Piercings are also subject to infections, so avoid them as well.

5.  Don’t use the moment to get other vaccines. Don’t try to save time by getting all of your vaccinations at the same time. There is not enough data on the safety and efficacy of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines administered simultaneously with other vaccines. It is recommended that you wait 14 days before obtaining other vaccines. administration with any other vaccines. There are exceptions such as a tetanus shot.

6.  Don’t exercise if you don’t feel well. If you feel tired or feverish after your vaccination, listen to your body and rest.

7.  Hydrate. It’s always good to drink plenty of liquids, and the CDC recommends you drink water after your vaccination.

8.  Don’t lose your vaccine card. The CDC recommends you keep your vaccination card in case you need it later. They suggest that you consider taking a picture of your vaccination card as a backup copy. Some businesses such as Office Depot and OfficeMax and Staples will laminate the card for free for you, once you’ve received your second shot.