People world over are finally getting a chance to let out a long-anticipated sigh of relief after enduring a whole year full of uncertainty, lockdowns, and binging on Netflix. Once the vaccines began rolling, many decided to get their shot to protect themselves and their loved ones. So, it makes you wonder what the big deal about the vaccine is anyway.
How does a vaccine work?
For starters, the vaccine includes a weakened version of the virus injected into your body, which then picks up the signals and develops antibodies against the virus. This results in your body developing the ability to protect you from the virus.
Now, in this process, it is natural for some people to show signs of side effects from the vaccine, but it is essential for everyone to know these side effects before they go out to get their shots.
What is a Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine?
Created by Pfizer pharmaceuticals in the US and BioNTech in Germany, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine comes in two doses vaccine. For now, there is a lack of data regarding the side effects of vaccines, meaning that the formula can be subjected to change once there is enough data.
What are the possible side effects?
No pain, no gain! They’ve said it right. The vaccine comes with a few side effects that vary from person to person. The Food and Drug Administration has released a Vaccines fact sheet that states the following side effects:
- Fatigue- feeling drained and exhausted
- Headaches
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscular pain
- Nausea
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Diarrhea
Many people who got their vaccine shot reported having pain in the area where they were injected, and people have also reported that the side effects are strong after the second dose. However, there is a silver lining to this – if you get the vaccine and develop side effects, then you can rest assured that the vaccine is doing its job.
Allergic Reaction
Though it is very rare, some people might be allergic to the contents of the vaccine, which is why after you get the vaccine shot, you are monitored for a brief period of time. The allergic reaction can cause the patient to go into an anaphylactic shock, which includes:
- Difficulty breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Swelling of face or throat
Generally, the side effects tend to stay mild and go away on their own. If you feel like the symptoms are getting prolonged and are worsening, you should immediately contact your nearest medical center for further assistance.