What are common side effects from COVID-19 vaccines?

Some people who get vaccinated don't experience any side effects, while others experience mild to moderate side effects for a few days.

What side effects can I expect after a jab?

Side effects that are common after getting a COVID-19 vaccination include:

• Pain around the injection site (your arm)
• Fever and chills
• Headache and muscle aches

These symptoms are just proof that your body is mounting an immune response - which is exactly what it's meant to do: train to fight the actual virus in case you're exposed. The best cure is rest, but if you wish, you can take pain and fever medication such as paracetamol to reduce the discomfort of such symptoms. Don't worry though, these side-effects generally resolve and complete disappear within two to five days of being vaccinated.

What about side effects like clotting and allergic reactions?

Severe side effects such as clotting and severe allergic reactions are highly unlikely, and may affect two to ten people in a million. While such side effects are considered very rare at population level, it's understandable that people are concerned about them at an individual level.

Severe side effects such as clotting and severe allergic reactions are highly unlikely, and may affect two to ten people in a million. While such side effects are considered very rare at population level, it's understandable that people are concerned about them at an individual level.

Weigh potential vaccine risks against those of contracting COVID-19

What is less predictable and manageable are the side effects that come about from contracting the actual COVID-19 virus. This is why vaccination is still recommended for the vast majority of the population. Watch Dr Noluthando explain more here:

Want to know more? Learn more about COVID-19 and vaccines here, and join the millions of South Africans who can proudly say, #IGotMyVaccine!