COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.
What does the COVID-19 vaccine do in your body?
COVID-19 vaccines teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Sometimes this process can cause symptoms, such as fever.
Can you still get COVID-19 after vaccine?
Most people who get COVID-19 are unvaccinated. However, since vaccines are not 100% effective at preventing infection, some people who are fully vaccinated will still get COVID-19. An infection of a fully vaccinated person is referred to as a “breakthrough infection.”
How does the COVID-19 vaccine boost your immune system?
Vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies, exactly like it would if you were exposed to the disease. After getting vaccinated, you develop immunity to that disease, without having to get the disease first.
Do COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness?
Recent data[1 MB, 68 pages] suggest COVID-19 vaccines become less effective at preventing infection or severe illness over time, especially for people ages 65 years and older. This is why booster shots are recommended for people ages 12 years and older who have completed their primary vaccination series. However, even as the vaccine’s ability to prevent infection decreases with time, COVID-19 vaccination continues to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death when people become infected with COVID-19. People who have certain medical conditions or who are taking medications that weaken their immune system may not be completely protected even if they completed the primary vaccination series.
Does the pneumonia vaccine provide any protection against COVID-19?
The pneumonia vaccine protects against a type of bacterial pneumonia, not the COVID-19 virus. However, it’s still important to get the pneumonia vaccine – particularly if you’re over 65 or have a compromised immune system.
Is it safe to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen before a COVID-19 vaccine?
Because of the lack of high-quality studies on taking NSAIDs or Tylenol before getting a vaccine, the CDC and other similar health organizations recommend not taking Advil or Tylenol beforehand.
Is it safe to take pain relievers before getting the COVID-19 vaccine?
To be extra cautious, it’s best to avoid taking OTC pain relievers before you get your shot. But it’s OK to take Tylenol after the COVID-19 vaccine.
Can I take an antihistamine before getting a COVID-19 vaccine?
Do I need to discontinue my medications after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?
For most people, it is not recommended to avoid, discontinue, or delay medications that you are routinely taking for prevention or treatment of other medical conditions around the time of COVID-19 vaccination.
Is it safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Will COVID-19 vaccines cause some of the symptoms of the virus?