As the COVID-19 vaccination slowly is distributed, I was fortunate enough to receive dosages through my job. In late January, I received my first dose and got my second in the middle of February. Disclaimer, reactions to the vaccine can be different and everyone’s experience is unique. As someone who’s fully vaccinated, I wanted to give a few insiders to know before others start to get their shots.
For more context, I received the Pfizer vaccination. For more information on the vaccine, check out the websites of the CDC, FDA, and WHO. Personally, I felt that the first shot was no problem. It was quite similar to the flu shot. A quick pinch and no pain after, until about three hours after. During this time I took Tylenol as suggested, which didn’t help with the pain. I received the shot in my left arm and was pain-free until I laid down on my arm and started to feel soreness. This lasted for two to three days. Otherwise, this was super easy and convenient.
On the other hand, the second shot had worse side effects. For the first few hours, I felt fine. Later that night I started to have a pretty bad headache and was in a bad mood. I was able to fall asleep but when I woke up, I had a massive headache focusing on the back of my head towards my neck. Something that I experienced that seemed unusual was jaw pain. Eating was difficult since the muscle hurt when I opened my mouth. Keep in mind that joint pain is a possible side effect. For about three days I felt pretty bad. All I dealt with was jaw pain, headaches, fatigue, and arm soreness. While the side effects were strong, for me it was bearable and definitely worth it to receive the vaccine.
Again, my experience could be different than anyone else’s. Before receiving the shot, make sure to contact your doctor and do research to know what to expect and how to handle possible sickness. And keep in mind, vaccination still means you should wear a mask and practice social distancing!