Following the COVID-19 vaccine, you may experience short-term side effects which are normal signs that your body is building protection. Common side effects include pain and swelling on the arm where you got the shot. Throughout the rest of your body, you may also experience fever, chills, tiredness and headache. Rest assured that these side effects should go away in a few days but talk with your provider if you have pain or discomfort and want to discuss taking over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Call 911 if you have an allergic reaction after your vaccine. Signs of an allergic reaction include: difficulty breathing, swelling of your face and throat, fast heartbeat, a bad rash all over your body, dizziness and weakness.

*To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot, apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area and continue to use or exercise your arm. To reduce discomfort from fever, drink plenty of fluids and dress lightly. Contact your healthcare provider if the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours or if your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days.