Tips for when it is your turn to get your vaccine

Before your vaccination

Ensure you have a 14-day gap between other vaccines and the Covid-19 vaccine.
If you feel sick on the day of the vaccine, check with your health care provider if you should get the vaccine now, or if you should rather postpone.
Please also speak to your doctor if you have a history of severe allergic reactions or other health issues that concern you in relationship with the Covid-19 vaccine.

At the vaccination site

The health care professional that administers your vaccine received specialised training for the Covid-19 vaccine. If you still have any concerns about the vaccine or your well-being, ask them for advice.
Your vaccine will be administered in your arm. Wear clothes that allow easy access to your upper arm.
Take your ID, Voucher number and AMS membership card or Medical Aid number.
The health care provider will keep you at the vaccination site for 15 min to look out for any immediate reactions, although they are very rare.

After your vaccination

Keep the record / prove of your vaccination.
Be careful about posting selfies with vaccination certificates containing your personal information such as ID numbers on social media.
Know that side effects are normal and expected. It could be a pain or swelling in your arm, mild fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle or joint aches, chills, or diarrhoea. If they take longer than a few days or if you have a stronger reaction, please consult with your health care provider.
If you received the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine, please watch out for the second-dose appointment.
Remember that your immune system needs 2-3 weeks after your vaccination before it fully protects you. If you receive the Johnson and Johnson this would be 2-3 weeks thereafter, if you receive the Pfizer vaccine, 2-3 weeks after the second dose.
The vaccine won't necessarily stop you from catching the virus, it will protect you f rom severe infections and limiting the need for hospitalisation and ventilation therapy.