Mayo Clinic experts are advising Americans to get a COVID-19 vaccine “as soon as it is available for [them]”And they emphasize that the three COVID-19 vaccines currently being distributed in America are safe and effective.
However, although adverse reactions are extremely rare, the Mayo Clinic also states that it is important to note that “some people have reactions to certain vaccines”.
As noted by Eat This, Not That, “the cases of COVID-19 are still widespread and changing, and the vaccines we recommend have been approved for safe use”. However, as with any medication, some people may experience allergic reactions to their dosage.
A statement released by the Mayo Clinic explains that “reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine are usually mild or moderate”; that “most reactions happen in the first few days;” and that these reactions generally do not last more than three days. Common examples include “pain, redness or swelling at the injection site; fever; fatigue; headache; muscle or joint pain and chills. “
The organization further states that, “Even if you experience these reactions, no matter how strong they are, you should take the second dose of your vaccine as needed.”
There are two types of allergic reactions.
The Mayo Clinic lists two types of reactions that can occur: “common reactions” – which can happen and can be treated at home – and “allergic reactions”, which can be fatal.
The Mayo Clinic recommends that anyone who shows signs of an allergic reaction within four hours after the first dose receives emergency care immediately. They should then inform their primary health care provider about the incident.
These are the signs of an allergic reaction.
The Mayo Clinic says the following are signs of an allergic reaction, if they occur within four hours after the first dose of the vaccine:
- Shortness of breath or continuous wheezing.
- Swelling of the lips, eyes or tongue.
- Redness, swelling or itching in other areas of the body besides the limb where the vaccine was administered.
When should you call your health care provider?
The Mayo Clinic declares that you should contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have common reactions that last more than three days.
- Your reaction is so strong that you are worried about it.
The statement goes on to note that “some reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine are the same as the symptoms of a COVID-19 infection” and “normally, if you had these symptoms, you would have the COVID-19 test”. However, it is not necessary to get tested when you know that your symptoms are likely due to an allergic reaction caused by the vaccine.
However, you He does need to be tested for COVID-19 if:
- You have been in close contact in the past two weeks with someone who has COVID-19.
- You have a cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose. These are not reactions to the vaccine.
When should you seek emergency care?
As stated earlier, the Mayo Clinic says it is very important that you get emergency care if you show signs of an allergic reaction within four hours of your first dose and then follow up with your primary care team.
“Do not wait until the second dose to report possible allergic reactions that you had after the first dose,” says the organization. “If you have an allergic reaction, it may be necessary to be evaluated by your doctor as soon as possible. If you have a history of allergies, tell your medical team about your allergies. Tell them about all the reactions you had to medications and vaccines. “
What to do if you have a “common” reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Mayo Clinic says it is normal to have reactions after the vaccine, although many people do not. “Give your body time to recover,” advises the organization. “If necessary, put ice on the injection area, rest and take a pain reliever like paracetamol (example: Tylenol ™) or ibuprofen (example: Advil ™).”
Can you get the vaccine if you have a history of allergies?
To learn more about this and more, you can read the full report at Eat This, Not That.
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