In addition to keeping you from getting sick, being vaccinated makes you much less likely to spread COVID-19 to others. When you are fully vaccinated, you may be able to safely get back into activities that you had stopped doing because of the pandemic, such as attending live events, visiting gyms and recreation centers, and traveling. Keep in mind that returning to pre-pandemic life is dependent on the current public health guidelines and restrictions in your region. COVID-19 vaccines are safe for women in pregnancy. [2] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source There are several different kinds of COVID-19 vaccines available. As of July 2021, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is the only vaccine currently approved for kids and teens under 18. [3] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Other countries may have different guidance or mandates regarding vaccination. Contact your local health authority to see what is recommended and available to you. Most types of COVID-19 vaccine require you to get 2 doses, about 3 weeks apart. However, if you get the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you’ll only need 1 dose.
In the U. S. , you can find vaccination providers near you by visiting https://www. vaccines. gov/. You can also text your zip code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233 for more information. [4] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Check your local government website for more information about finding vaccines in your country or region.
Common side effects include a soreness, redness, and mild swelling around the site of the shot. Over the next 1-2 days, you might also experience some flu-like symptoms, such as tiredness, a headache, muscle aches, nausea, and a fever or chills. Call your doctor if you’re worried about any of your side effects, or if they get worse or don’t go away after 2-3 days.
Until you’re fully vaccinated, you’ll still need to take precautions, such as wearing a mask and staying at least 6 feet (1. 8 m) away from others in public places. You’re not fully protected until 2 weeks after your final dose of the vaccine! Since there’s still a small chance you could catch COVID, not all experts agree that you should go back to normal activities after getting the vaccine. The World Health Organization still recommends taking extra precautions, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and staying at least 3 feet (0. 91 m) away from others in crowded public places. [7] X Trustworthy Source World Health Organization Health information and news provided by the World Health Organization Go to source Use your best judgment and follow local laws and guidelines.
Before you get the vaccine, your healthcare provider will ask you about your health history and any allergies you may have. Your doctor can help you decide whether the vaccine is safe for you based on your health history.
You can always stay connected by calling or video chatting with friends and family. [10] X Research source
Some people with COVID-19 don’t show symptoms, so they can accidentally make others sick without knowing they have the virus. Masks can help prevent this from happening. Cloth masks are ineffective in preventing the spread of more infectious variants of COVID-19, like Delta and Omicron. Use a medical-grade mask to limit the spread and risk of infection from the current dominant variants of the coronavirus. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source '
In some places, like grocery stores, you won’t realistically be able to distance yourself from everyone around you. Just wear a mask and do the best that you can! Do your best to social distance wherever you go, whether you’re indoors or outdoors.
Hand sanitizers are a great alternative if you’re in a rush or don’t have access to soap and water. Look for products with at least 60% ethanol/ethyl alcohol, which ensures that the germs will be destroyed.
Getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night Eating nutritious vegetables and fruits each day Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week Relaxing and practicing mindfulness to reduce stress. Regularly connecting with friends and family on the phone or with video calls.
Your fever has to have gone away on its own without the help of any medication. Ask friends or family members to pick up food for you so you don’t leave your home while you recuperate. [24] X Research source Or, order delivery.
As you recover, practice the same healthy habits you’d normally practice, like covering your coughs and sneezes and sanitizing your hands regularly.
Keep hand sanitizer close by so you can always keep your hands clean.
If you’re less likely to catch COVID-19, you’ll be less likely to spread it as well. Glasses that don’t fit properly may also cause you to touch your face. If you really have to itch your face, use a tissue to get the job done.
If you test positive for COVID-19, always follow your doctor’s recommendations. While there’s no cure for COVID, there are a variety of treatments available that can help manage your symptoms and improve your chances of a quick recovery. These include certain antiviral medications, steroids, and medicines that help block severe inflammatory reactions in the lungs. [33] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Only use medications that have been prescribed or approved by your doctor.
You may want to store your shoes away from common areas or outside of your home if you have young kids who will likely be crawling or touching the ground a lot. This way, they won’t touch any of the dirt that’s on your shoes.
For instance, wash your hands frequently while you’re at home, and make an effort not to touch your face.
