COVID-19 Vaccine Health Guide: Before, During & After

     The COVID-19 vaccine, like other vaccines, does not provide 100% protection. Its effectiveness depends on the vaccine type and individual response, with efficacy against infection ranging between 60-90%. However, a key property of all COVID-19 vaccines is their ability to reduce disease severity after infection and lower mortality by nearly 100%, significantly decreasing hospitalizations and loss of life. 

To maximize the benefits of vaccination and prevent or minimize potential side effects, it is essential to prepare your body and health prior to receiving the vaccine as follows:

Before Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine

• Individuals with underlying medical conditions or regular medications should consult their primary physician first.
• Get adequate rest and sleep.
• If you are sick, have a fever, or feel unwell, postpone your vaccination by at least 1-2 weeks.
• Drink sufficient water and avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Eat a proper meal; if you take daily medication for underlying conditions, take it as usual.
• If using blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs, please inform staff at the registration counter.
• Patients taking Warfarin without a medical history or INR test result at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital within 1 month prior to vaccination, please bring your INR result to notify staff in person. (If the INR result cannot be provided, the hospital reserves the right to postpone or cancel your vaccination appointment.)
• Receive the COVID-19 vaccine at least 4 weeks apart from other vaccines.
• Pregnant women under 12 weeks of gestational age must inform the staff, and the hospital will withhold vaccination.

During COVID-19 Vaccination

• Prepare required documents such as ID card and registration details for quick processing.
• Arrive at the hospital 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your shoulder for injection.
• Wear a face mask at all times, wash your hands thoroughly, and maintain physical distance.
• Individuals in the 7 high-risk disease groups (cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic respiratory disease, obesity, chronic kidney failure, cancer, diabetes) should consult their physician prior to vaccination.
• Before vaccination, it is not necessary to stop any medication or take additional medicine unless prescribed by a doctor.
• Staff will measure body temperature, blood pressure, and blood oxygen level prior to receiving the vaccine.
• It is recommended to receive the injection in your non-dominant arm and avoid flexing or straining that arm.
• Strictly follow instructions provided by healthcare personnel.

After Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine

1.  Observation Period

     Remain at the hospital or vaccination site for 30 minutes for observation. Possible side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include:
 

1.1.  Mild Side Effects

     These usually resolve on their own within 3 days. Common symptoms include low-grade fever, muscle and joint aches, pain, swelling, redness, itching or bruising at the injection site, fatigue, general discomfort, headache, nausea, or localized numbness.

1.2.  Severe Side Effects

     Uncommon or rare side effects include: a lump at the injection site, dizziness, lightheadedness, palpitations, abdominal pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive sweating, swollen lymph nodes, facial drooping, muscle weakness, seizures, loss of consciousness, or flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and runny nose.
 

1.3.  Allergic Reactions

     Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, low blood pressure, bronchospasm, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash. If severe symptoms occur after vaccination, seek immediate medical attention.

2.  Avoiding Strain on the Vaccinated Arm

     Avoid straining the vaccinated arm or lifting heavy objects for at least 2 days.

3.  Managing Pain and Fever

     If you experience fever or severe body aches, take 500 mg of Paracetamol, 1 tablet every 6 hours as needed (Strictly avoid medications such as Brufen, Arcoxia, Celebrex).

4.  Blood Pressure Measurement

     After completing the 30-minute observation, staff will recheck your blood pressure before discharge. After returning home, self-monitor for 48-72 hours. If severe abnormal symptoms occur, such as one-sided numbness, limb weakness, or facial drooping, seek medical attention immediately.

     After receiving the first dose, continue preparing yourself for the second dose or booster shot, which will effectively enhance protection against infection and severe illness. Potential side effects are merely the body's natural response to the vaccine.

Even after receiving the vaccine, continue to strictly follow preventive measures—including wearing a face mask, physical distancing, and frequent handwashing—to prevent asymptomatic transmission to unvaccinated or vulnerable individuals.