Got Your Vaccine? Tips to Deal With Side Effects

Side effects are natural with any type of vaccine. In fact, it is a good thing if you develop temporary side effects which indicates that your immune system is fighting against the fake enemy to protect your body.

After my first dose I got a terrible headache, arm pain, really high fever and a bit of tiredness which lasted around 2–3 days. After the second dose, I got a little bit of fever, bodyache, a little headache and tiredness. Needless to say, if possible do take a day or two off from school/college/work after both the doses so that it does not impact your mental health and your work.

Adequate water intake is important to stay hydrated. Alongside proper sleep, a balanced diet, less strenuous exercise and low intake of caffeine is recommended. A paracetamol tablet can be taken to reduce the body pain.

The pain at the injection site usually resolves within one day to 5 days, while fever and body ache resolve in 2–3 days. First of all, you should not worry about the side effects and be completely relaxed as these are minor side effects. For pain at the injection site, you can keep a wet cloth (cool) or if necessary some medicines to reduce pain. For fever, you should take paracetamol (medicines to reduce fever) and keep yourself hydrated. You are also advised to rest, in case of fever.

Eat anti-inflammatory foods like strawberries, cherries, oranges, mackerel, green vegetables, and nuts after vaccination. Limit your intake of processed and junk food. Remember that a healthy diet will reduce inflammation and strengthen your immune system. Moreover, you will have to get a good night’s sleep and avoid exertion.

And remember, it takes around two weeks after the second dose for the immunity to develop. Also, the vaccine is not 100 percent effective and so there are some chances of infection (known as breakthrough infection) even after being vaccinated. Take care!