Currently the United States is administering over 1.6 million COVID-19 shots a day. There are many questions people want answers to regarding the vaccines and we hope this Q&A is helpful to you.
If you can still be infected with the virus after receiving the vaccine, why are we told we are protecting our family and community by being vaccinated?
Studies have suggested that those who are vaccinated are less likely to transmit the virus to others by about two-thirds. But because more data is necessary, it’s a good idea to follow social distancing guidelines when you’re near unvaccinated people to reduce any slight risk of transmission.
Q: There have been reports of people experiencing adverse reactions to the vaccine. Is that true?
A: You may experience some intense but brief symptoms like fatigue, nausea and a low fever after you’re vaccinated. Those are often synonymous with COVID-19, but these vaccine-induced side effects should subside within 24 to 48 hours. It’s also possible you could experience no side effects, or they could be as mild as a headache and a sore arm.
When will it be safer to be in a public place after receiving the vaccine?
Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are still learning about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide under real-life conditions. So, once you get vaccinated, keep wearing your mask, washing your hands and staying six feet from others until you hear differently from the CDC.
How many days after having COVID-19 can someone receive the vaccine?
The only rule about being vaccinated after being infected with the virus is that people must have completed the quarantine period and be symptom-free for 90 days.
Q: Is it safe for children to get the vaccine?
A: At this time, the COVID-19 vaccine has only been approved for individuals above the age of 16 (Pfizer-BioNTech) or the age of 18 (Moderna). Clinical trials are being performed for children under the age of 16.
If you or someone you know is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit ourshot.in.gov or call 211 to schedule an appointment. Additional groups will be made eligible by the Indiana Department of Health as more doses of the vaccine become available. If you would like to learn more, please talk with your health care provider or call Eskenazi Health Connections at 317.880.7666.
People who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their health care provider immediately. If you are ill with flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, please call your health center or clinic before coming to your appointment. If you are an Eskenazi Health patient, please call 317.880.7666 before coming to your appointment.
