Over the last few weeks, we talked about the COVID vaccine and common questions surrounding it. One of the biggest questions we haven’t answered yet is what are the COVID vaccine side effects? In the following blog, we will answer this question in depth. 

What are the Common Side Effects to Watch Out For? 

What are the side effects of the COVID Vaccine? Here is a list of the most common side effects. #mainstreetmedical #COVIDVaccine Click To Tweet

Note: while side effects to vaccines are a normal part of your body creating protection against the virus, if symptoms persist or worsen please go to the doctor. These symptoms are meant to be minor, not debilitating. The COVID vaccine side effects are as follows:

1. Pain, Redness, or Swelling at the Injection Site
2. Fever or Headache
3. Fatigue or Muscle Pain
4. Chills
5. Nausea or Vomiting
6. Swollen Lymph Nodes

1) Pain, Redness, or Swelling at the Injection Site

As with many other vaccines, tenderness at the injection site is to be expected for most people. It should feel similar to a bug bite, or a bruise. This side effect normally starts a day or two after receiving the injection and will last a few days after they appear. 

2) Fever or Headache

If you develop this side effect, it will likely last for a day or two. It should go away within a few days. To ease this side effect hold a cold compress to your forehead. The temperature will help reduce your fever and ease the pain of the headache. 

3) Fatigue or Muscle Pain

Talk to your doctor about taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and others for pain from these side-effects. The CDC recommends not to take these medications in preparation for the vaccine. 

4) Chills

Chills are a common side effect of many vaccines, and the COVID vaccine is no different. If you experience chills the best treatment is to rest, and take a lukewarm shower to manage your chills. 

5) Nausea or Vomiting

 Though this is a more severe side effect, it is not uncommon. The best remedy for nausea is saltines and ginger ale. Other than that, get plenty of rest, and don’t overextend yourself.

6) Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are glands located in the neck. When someone has a bacterial or viral infection these glands swell as an immune response. Because of how the vaccine works, it may trigger this bodily function. The best treatment for this symptom is rest and a warm compress applied to the neck. 

Call A Doctor if Worse Side Effects Persist

Though these side effects should be minor and only last a few days, visit a doctor if they persist. Symptoms should not stay or increase as time goes on. If they do this is a sign of an allergic reaction to the virus. 

Contact us if you have any questions about the vaccine.