What to expect with your second dose of vaccine

Mar. 8, 2021  PLYMOUTH VOICE.

Plymouth Michigan News

According to medical experts at Cleveland Clinic, side effects are more common with the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, however many people have little to no reaction after receiving their second dose. Doctors, who stress the importance of a second dose, say it’s crucial for longer and more complete immunity.

Clinicians say severe reactions are rare.

Common side effects following vaccination are a sore arm, fatigue and muscle aches. Some people get a fever and chills, especially after the second dose, but they don’t last long – about one to three days.

You’ve likely heard stories about the COVID-19 vaccine’s second dose. While it’s true that you’re more likely to experience side effects after the second shot, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will.

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Here’s what to know about COVID-19 vaccine side effects

Doctors advise not to pre-medicate before the vaccine, but you can take acetaminophen (Tylenol ®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) afterward to help ease discomfort as long as you don’t have any medical reasons that normally prevent you from using these medicines.

Side effects are a good sign – they mean your immune system is taking notice of the vaccine and reacting appropriately. If you don’t experience any reaction after either dose, it’s no cause for concern either. Everyone is different and will respond differently.

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If you don’t get sick after your COVID-19 vaccination 

Doctors also advise not to skip the second vaccine dose because it helps your body stay protected for longer — and more fully — against COVID-19. If you get both doses, you’ll have about a 95% chance of not getting sick if you’re around someone who has the virus.

Plymouth Voice.