Like other vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines can cause side effects for some people. These usually last from a few hours to a few days after vaccination. Side effects are more likely to happen after the second dose. This is the body's natural inflammatory response or reaction, indicating that it's working hard to build immunity against the disease.
Examples of common side effects that have been reported for the COVID-19 vaccines include redness or swelling where the vaccine was given, tiredness/headache, muscle/joint pain, chills/fever, and diarrhea.
You can use a cool damp cloth where the vaccine was given to help with soreness. If needed, pain or fever medication (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) may help with pain or fever.
Rare side effects
Serious side effects after receiving the vaccine are rare. Most serious reactions will occur shortly after injection, and clinic staff are prepared to help you if you have an allergic reaction should it occur. However, should you develop any of the following adverse reactions within three days of receiving the vaccine, seek medical attention right away or call 911 if needed.
Rare serious side effects include:
- allergic reaction (hives, swelling of the face or mouth, trouble breathing),
- very pale colour,
- serious drowsiness,
- high fever (over 40°C),
- convulsions or seizures, and
- numbness (pins and needles).
If you have a reaction that requires you to seek medical care, your healthcare provider will inform public health of any serious side effects after vaccination.
Reporting an adverse reaction to a vaccine
If you are concerned about any reactions you experience after receiving the vaccine, contact your healthcare provider. Any side effects that are greater than common side effects listed on your aftercare sheet from the vaccination clinic or that are concerning to you should be reported to SMDHU Immunization Program at 705-721-7520 (1-877-721-7520). One of our staff will collect the information and advise you on next steps.
If you experienced side effects that were more severe than the common side effects after your first dose, make sure to tell the person providing the second dose about the side affects you experienced the first time.
Reported side effects are collected provincially, nationally and internationally and guidance about getting the vaccine is adjusted as required.