What to Expect
At Your Vaccine Appointment
At your appointment, you will receive the vaccination shot in your upper arm and be monitored for about 15 to 30 minutes before you leave to make sure you do not have a reaction to the vaccine.
It is important to know that the COVID vaccine is free for everyone. Vaccinators may ask you for your insurance information, but you do not need to have health insurance to get the vaccine and you will not receive a bill for the vaccine.
After Your Vaccine Appointment
Side effects are a normal part of vaccination. After getting a vaccine, the body launches an immune response that can produce short-term symptoms. These symptoms are a positive sign that the body is building immunity. These side effects do not mean that you are sick with COVID-19.
Side effects of COVID-19 vaccines can include exhaustion or tiredness, muscle pain, chills, and fever. Side effects are more common after the second dose of the vaccine and usually last for one or two days.
These symptoms may make you feel sick enough to stay home from work. Talk with your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have about the vaccine and how you will manage potential side effects.
Learn more about what to expect from the COVID vaccine.
When You Are Fully Vaccinated
After you receive your vaccine, it will take time for your body to build immunity against the virus that causes COVID-19. You will be considered “fully vaccinated”
- 2 weeks after your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or
- 2 weeks after your single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Once you are fully vaccinated, you can safely resume some normal activities without worrying about getting sick. Continue to follow CDC guidance for fully vaccinated people.
While vaccination significantly decreases your chances of getting sick from COVID-19, you may still be able to spread the virus. Continue taking steps like masking and physical distancing to protect people who are not fully vaccinated.