Think back over the last year for a moment. During the previous year, most of us saw life as we knew it change forever. Lockdowns, masks, social distancing, working from home, and a shift in how we relate with one another became commonplace. To put it mildly: It’s been quite a year. Innova Primary Care wants you to know that it has been a privilege to serve each of our patients, especially in these trying times. We saw firsthand the sacrifices and adjustments you made to keep moving in a forward direction, and we applaud you! 

But we can sense a new day dawning, and it feels like we are all coming out of a fog, and we are finally coming out of dark days. Much of this is due, in part, to the Covid vaccines now available to anyone over the age of 16.

The Case For The Covid Vaccine

The decision to get vaccinated for Covid is deeply personal, but we want to make a case for it. We are medical professionals, and part of our mission is to see those we serve healthy mind, body, and soul. We know that vaccines, in general, can be controversial for some. The Covid vaccine is no exception. At the time of this post, approximately 152,116,936 million Americans have had at least one shot of the Covid vaccine. This translates to 45.8 percent of the population.

Why do these numbers matter? The road to eradicating the Covid virus has taken many twists and turns. A full-scale global assault brought 3 U.S approved vaccines to the forefront. To get this virus under control, experts believe that vaccines are the best way to implement herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when the majority of the population develops immunity to a given disease. This benefits the entire population of a given nation because those who are immune help provide indirect protection to those who are not. For America to reach this point, the CDC believes that at least 70 percent of the nation needs be immune to the virus. We are not there yet, but the more people who receive a vaccine, the better our chances.

A Well Informed Decision

We want to provide you with the best information possible to help you make your decision.

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes. While the route that got us to the approved vaccines looks different than traditional means, this does not mean that the vaccines are not safe.

Currently, there are three approved vaccines in the United States: Johnson & Johnson’s Jansen, Moderna, and Pfizer-BioNTech. Each vaccine underwent rigorous testing and clinical trials. All three were accepted by the FDA and given Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Each manufacturer had to apply for an EAU by the FDA and then await approval for emergency use.

Who can receive a vaccine?

As of May 10, 2021, anyone over the age of 16 is eligible to receive a Covid vaccine.

Are there Covid vaccine side effects?

As with any vaccine, there are potential side effects. We should note that you need to speak with your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any of the vaccine components. Also, some populations should not receive the vaccine. Again, talk with your health care provider to help you make the best decision.

For those who meet the eligibility standards, you may experience side effects from the vaccine. These include injection site soreness and/or swelling, tiredness, nausea, fatigue, headache, fever, or chills.

How do I treat side effects?

For any pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, you may apply a cold cloth or ice pack. We also recommend moving your arm as much as you can. You may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen post-vaccination (do not take it beforehand) to help manage any pain or discomfort provided you are medically cleared to do so.

Can I take an OTC medication BEFORE my vaccine to prevent side effects? 

There is mounting evidence to suggest that taking an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen before your shot may negatively impact your body’s ability to develop a robust immune response to the vaccine.

For those who take these medications for other conditions, under the advice of their physicians, we recommend you speak with your physician before you receive the vaccine in order to determine what is right for you. Remember, everyone is different and has different medical needs. Therefore, it is always best to speak with your provider to ensure you are making the best choice for your health.

Covid Vaccination Timeline

How many shots will I need?

You will need two doses to become fully vaccinated for those who receive the Moderna or Pfizer vaccinations. However, the Johnson and Johnson Jansen vaccine requires only one dose.

When will I become protected after my vaccine?

Complete vaccination occurs two weeks after the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine and two weeks post the Johnson and Johnson Janssen shot.

When will I become protected after my vaccine?

Full vaccination occurs 2 weeks after the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine and two weeks post the Johnson and Johnson Janssen shot.

How long will my vaccine protect me?

At this time, we do not have a solid answer to this question. Researchers are eagerly awaiting enough information to make an informed decision. Evidence suggests that those who have the vaccine have protection for at least a few months, but there is not enough data to know for sure at this point.

Can I still contract Covid if I am vaccinated?

According to data from the CDC, less than 6000 fully vaccinated Americans report a positive Covid diagnosis post-vaccination. While this may seem like a large number, you need to know that this is .007% or  6,000 individuals out of 84 million. 

So, yes, you may get Covid after you are fully vaccinated. However, the likelihood is minimal. In addition, evidence suggests that vaccination may lessen the severity of symptoms should you contract Covid post-vaccination.

Innova Supports You

We know that our patients expect transparency and truth from us, and we hope we have given you this today. For anyone that has any questions regarding the Covid-19 vaccines currently available, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to serve you.