COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccine · COVID shot · coronavirus vaccine · COVID booster
A vaccine shot in the upper arm that lowers the risk of getting seriously ill with COVID-19.
It is now most often advised for older people, those with long-term conditions, pregnant women, and health workers. Ask your doctor if you need it.
⏱ Duration: the shot takes a few seconds, with the checkup usually 15 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Health. The vaccine is given when you are well.
- Timing. A gap is needed between shots or after illness. Your doctor will say when.
- Clothes. Wear something that makes it easy to uncover your upper arm.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Your vaccination certificate or record
How it goes
- The doctor or nurse asks how you feel and takes your temperature
- You uncover your upper arm
- The skin is wiped, and the shot is given
- The vaccine is recorded in your documents
- After the shot, sit in the clinic for about 30 minutes
What you'll feel
- A quick prick
- Sometimes a sore arm for 1 to 2 days
- Sometimes tiredness, a headache, or a fever. It usually passes in 1 to 2 days
Afterwards
- Stay near the room for 30 minutes
- Rest if you feel tired
- Your doctor will say if another dose is needed
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rash all over: call emergency services
- Chest pain, a strong pounding heartbeat, or shortness of breath in the first days after: see a doctor right away
Common questions
Can the vaccine give me COVID?
No. The vaccine has no virus that can cause illness.
Do I need it if I already had COVID?
Sometimes yes, especially in high-risk groups. Your doctor will say when.