More than 27 million Americans have received a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and more than six million have been fully vaccinated. There are many questions people want answers to regarding the vaccines and we hope this Q&A is helpful to you.
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.
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.
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. A recent preliminary study from Oxford University, co-developer of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, found that it cut the risk of transmission by about two-thirds. But because more data is necessary, it’s a good idea to wear a mask when you’re near unvaccinated people in case a slight risk of transmission remains.
There have been reports of people experiencing adverse reactions to the vaccine. Is that true?
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.
How do you know the vaccine is safe during pregnancy?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommended the Covid-19 vaccine for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s also wise to get vaccinated, because pregnant women are thought to be at a higher risk of severe illness from Covid-19. Compared to symptomatic people who are not pregnant, pregnant people are at a higher risk of ICU admission, the need for a ventilator and death, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Is it safe for children to get the vaccine?
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. Health care professionals are available 24/7 to answer questions on symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate care. It is important to first call before arriving at Eskenazi Health.
Nydia Nunez-Estrada, M.D.
Assistant Professor of
Family Medicine
Eskenazi Health Center
North Arlington