By NG Seruela and Alec Go
The Philippines has already administered 7,563,241 COVID-19 vaccine doses as of June 16, covering first and second dose injections from the total 10.37 million deployed doses.
During a Palace briefing on June 8, National Adverse Events Following Immunization Committee (NAEFIC) chairperson Dr. Lulu Bravo said there are no “red flags” or bad signals on approved COVID-19 vaccines in the country.
Based on Department of Health (DOH) data, only 1.44% percent of the recipients of 4,495,375 doses administered as of May 25 reported experiencing side effects which were considered “mild.”
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDD) said the most common COVID-19 vaccine side effects are pain and swelling in the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, fever, chills, and nausea. Reactions to vaccines are signs that the vaccine is working, and are expected to go away in a few days.
Here’s what you should do in case of side effects:
For injection site pain
- Apply a cold compress using a clean, cold, and wet towel.
- Do mild arm exercises
- Call your healthcare provider if the pain or swelling worsens and does not seem to go away.
For fever and chills
- Drink plenty of water
- Rest
- Eat a balanced diet
- Drink paracetamol as prescribed by a physician
- Dress lightly
For “very rare” blood clotting
- Immediately report to healthcare service providers or to a hospital for treatment
For prolonged and unimproving side effects
- Consult your health service provider or doctor
- Call your local government unit or vaccination site hotline
Other things to do after getting vaccinated
- Stay at home unless attending an essential activity
- Ensure proper ventilation at home or workplace at all times
- Maintain a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle
- Monitor your health and report to your barangay in case of possible COVID-19 symptoms
- Observe minimum public health standards at all times