Back
Print 

COVID-19 Vaccine: Care Instructions

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

Overview

The COVID-19 vaccine can help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19. If you get COVID-19, your symptoms will probably be less severe than if you hadn't gotten the vaccine. You can't get COVID-19 from the vaccine.

The number of doses you need can depend on your age, your health, which vaccine you get, and whether updated vaccines are recommended. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you how to stay up to date.

What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?

You might not have side effects. But if you do, they'll probably be like those of other vaccines, including:

  • Fever.
  • Soreness.
  • Feeling very tired.

This is normal. Your body is building protection against COVID-19.

You may also have other side effects, including:

  • Chills.
  • Headache.
  • Pain, redness, a rash, or swelling in the arm where you had the vaccine.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit of the arm where you had the vaccine.
  • Nausea.

Side effects will likely go away in a few days. Until then, it may be harder to do your usual activities.

If you think you've been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms like a cough, trouble breathing, or a new loss of smell or taste, call your doctor. These aren't vaccine side effects. You need a COVID-19 test.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • If you have a sore arm or a fever after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
  • Put ice or a cold pack on the sore area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
  • If you have side effects, such as a fever, be sure to get enough rest and drink plenty of fluids.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if after getting the COVID-19 vaccine:

  • You have symptoms of a severe reaction to the vaccine. Symptoms of a severe reaction may include:
    • Severe difficulty breathing.
    • Sudden raised, red areas (hives) all over your body.
    • Severe lightheadedness.
    • Severe belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have one or more of these symptoms within a few weeks of getting a COVID-19 vaccine.
    • Shortness of breath.
    • Chest pain, or a feeling of a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter C126 in the search box to learn more about "COVID-19 Vaccine: Care Instructions".

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.