COVID Vaccine FAQs

Would you like to make yourself less vulnerable to getting sick? There is something simple you can do—get vaccinated. The vaccine against COVID-19 will help protect you from getting COVID-19. If you still get infected after you get vaccinated, the vaccine may prevent serious illness. By getting vaccinated, you can also protect people around you.

Q. Can the vaccine give me COVID-19?
A. No. None of the COVID-19 vaccines use the live virus that causes COVID-19. However, it typically takes a few weeks for a body to build immunity after vaccination. That means it’s possible you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or just after vaccination and get sick.

Q. Is it safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I have an underlying medical condition?
A. Yes. COVID-19 vaccination is especially important for people with underlying health problems like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and obesity. People with these conditions are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.

Q. Why do I need 2 COVID-19 shots?
A. Currently authorized vaccines require two doses of vaccine. The first shot helps the immune system recognize the virus and the second shot strengths the immune response. Two shots increases the amount of protection you receive the vaccine, but any level of protection is beneficial.

Q. Will the shot hurt or make me sick?
A. There may be side effects, but they should go away within a few days. Possible side effects include a sore arm, headache, fever, and body aches. This does not mean that you have COVID-19. Side effects are signs that the vaccine is working to build immunity. If they don’t go away in a week or you have more serious symptoms, call your doctor.

Q. How do I know if COVID-19 vaccine is safe?
A. All COVID-19 vaccines were tested in clinical trials involving tens of thousands of people to make sure they meet safety standards and protect adults of different ages, races, and ethnicities. There were no serious safety concerns. CDC and the FDA will keep monitoring the vaccines to look for safety issues after they are authorized and in use.

Have more questions? Schedule a telehealth appointment to talk with a primary care provider about the COVID-19 vaccine. Visit EvanstonAnytime.com.