The Covid booster rollout has been brought to attention amid warnings we may be at the beginning of an autumn wave of the virus. People aged over 65 are among those currently being offered the top-up, with the vaccine linked to plenty of benefits, including lowering your risk of catching the virus.
As with any medicine or vaccination, there are possible side effects to be aware of. Pharmacy 2U's superintendent pharmacist, Phil Day, told The Express what the most common side effects are and how to deal with them.
He said: "While we have largely returned to normal life, there is still a chance of those most vulnerable becoming seriously ill with the COVID-19 virus.
“Many respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and flu, are expected to be circulating at high levels this winter.”
That’s why experts stress it’s essential to get your immunisation if you’re eligible. But you might be wondering what side effects might crop up after.
While Covid jabs can cause certain side effects, not everyone will experience these unwanted signs, according to the NHS.
The pharmacist has shared the most “common” problems that might occur after your autumn dose. These include:
- A painful feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection, tending to be worst around one to two days after receiving the vaccine.
- Tiredness
- Headaches
- Achiness, or flu-like symptoms.
Day said: “The common side effects are the same for all COVID-19 vaccines used in the UK, including the new combined vaccination, but not everybody gets them.”
While these signs tend to be mild in the majority of patients, they still might feel unpleasant so the pharmacist offered some tips on easing them.
Day said: “If necessary, you can rest and take paracetamol (follow the advice in the packaging) to help you feel better.
“Although a fever (high temperature) can occur for one or two days after vaccination, if you have any other COVID-19 symptoms or if your fever lasts longer, stay at home and arrange a test.
“Any side effects following vaccination typically last less than a week. If you experience any and they seem to get worse or if you're concerned, you can call NHS 111 or talk to your pharmacist.”
