Vaccine Tips

We know many people have already had their first dose of the COVID vaccine but as it ramps up and second doses are coming, we thought we would provide some tips that can help people that may experience symptoms after having their vaccination.
Side effects are generally mild and can include pain or discomfort at the site of the injection, fever, fatigue, and headache.   While these side effects generally disappear in less than 48 hours, it is possible to develop a rash that lasts up to a week on the arm that was injected.

Here are some ways to minimize and, hopefully, avoid any negative side effects:
Before Injection:
1. Ensure adequate hydration by making sure to drink lots of water leading up to getting the shot. Ideally at least 2 litres in the 24 hours prior. Avoid alcohol consumption leading up to your appointment as this can increase the chances of experiencing side effects.
2. Ensure you are well rested by getting a good night sleep the night before.
3. Make sure to have a healthy light meal prior to getting the injection so you are not hungry during your appointment.
4. Days before the injection it is a good idea to make sure to be taking supplements that will help reduce inflammation such as, Curcumin, Quercetin, and Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
5. Other supplements which can help to prevent side effects, and repair tissue damage would include: Vitamins B, C, D, & E, Magnesium, Astaxanthins, Collagen, Zinc and Selenium. – a good multi-vitamin should cover most of these.
 
During Injection:
1. Try to relax as much as possible.
2. Make sure to focus on your breathing.
 
After Injection:
1. Make sure to limit any stressful activities right after receiving the shot. It would be best to take off the rest of the day if you are able.
2. Make sure to move the arm that was injected as much as possible as movement will help to reduce soreness and stiffness of the arm.
3. Icing or using a cold pack compress on the injection site directly after can reduce the amount of inflammation post-injection.
4. Continue to drink adequate water and continue taking the supplements recommended prior to injection.
5. Avoid things like alcohol and excessive consumption of stimulants (coffee, tea, nicotine, etc.) for the rest of the day. Oils that are high in Omega 6 (corn, safflower, sunflower, soybean, canola, and peanut oils) may increase inflammation, so they are best avoided as well. 
6. Try to ensure an early bedtime for a good night’s sleep after but if needed do have a nap after the injection if needed.

Again, although it is normal for some of the side effects of the vaccine and symptoms of Covid 19 to overlap (like muscle weakness/soreness, fever, fatigue), if you do experience very strong or long-lasting side effects, it is important to contact your health care provider, especially if there is shortness of breath or chest pain.