With the progressive distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, more and more people are entitled to make an appointment for administration. While there isn't much you need to do before you get your first dose, there are several ways you can prepare yourself for everything to go smoothly and minimize the side effects. Make sure you wear the face mask and continue to distance yourself socially even after the vaccine to protect yourself and others.
Steps
Part 1 of 11: See your doctor if you have any questions
Step 1. You may not have time to ask questions during your appointment
If you don't know if the COVID vaccine is right for your health condition or if you have any concerns, make an appointment with your primary doctor to discuss it. Your doctor can tell you the difference between the types of vaccines available and which one is best for you.
- Experts agree that the COVID vaccine is safe if you are pregnant or while breastfeeding. However, if you have any concerns, speak freely with your doctor before making a decision.
- If you have an underlying medical condition, you can have the vaccine given as long as you have not had an allergic reaction to the vaccines you have previously done. To find out more about the recommendations for the COVID-19 vaccine in case of underlying medical conditions, visit the website of the CDC or that of the Italian Medicines Agency.
Part 2 of 11: Make an appointment online
Step 1. Government and Healthcare are in charge of the distribution
If you qualify for the vaccine, you can go online to make an appointment and get a time slot to show up.
- At the moment, the administration of the vaccine takes place only by appointment. As distribution increases, this system may change.
- Government and health care could limit the number of people who can be vaccinated. Check the local government website to see if you qualify before making an appointment. On this page you will find a list of references to contact based on the region where you live.
- COVID vaccination is free for everyone, so you won't have to pay for access.
Part 3 of 11: Avoid getting other vaccines given at the same time
Step 1. Experts are unsure of the reactions of the COVID vaccine along with other vaccines
Do not schedule other vaccinations for the 14 days prior to the COVID vaccine and the minimum two weeks thereafter. This will also reduce the side effects you may have from multiple vaccines at the same time.
If you were to book 2 vaccinations too close, that's still fine - you don't need to restart the COVID vaccine series
Part 4 of 11: Put on the face mask and practice social distancing before the vaccine
Step 1. It is important to protect yourself, even if you are vaccinated (or close to the vaccine)
Stay at home as much as possible, wear a mask when you go out and keep a safe distance (about 2 meters) from people you don't live with. Wash your hands often to avoid inflicting yourself and the people around you.
Continue to follow these safety measures even after being vaccinated to protect the people around you
Part 5 of 11: Wait at least 90 days if you have been treated for COVID-19
Step 1. Experts are unsure whether COVID treatments interfere with the vaccine
If you have received treatment for COVID-19, with antibodies or with plasma, wait at least 90 days before making your appointment. It is not yet known how long natural immunity lasts by taking COVID-19, so try to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
If you've had COVID-19, but haven't been treated with antibodies or plasma, you can make your appointment as soon as you've recovered
Part 6 of 11: Eat something and drink water on the day of the appointment
Step 1. Some people report feeling faint after the vaccine
You can reduce any side effects by drinking plenty of water and eating a full, balanced meal before your appointment. You may have to wait in line for quite some time before you are vaccinated, so make sure you eat before you go.
Part 7 of 11: Bring ID to the appointment
Step 1. You will need to confirm your identity
Bring a valid identity document and health card.
It may also be useful to have any health documentation with you that can help the vaccinator to assess the physical state
Part 8 of 11: Wear the face mask to the appointment
Step 1. Both you and the vaccinator must necessarily wear a mask
When you go out for your appointment, make sure you wear a face mask, whether it's cloth or medical, that completely covers your nose and mouth. If you're not wearing a face mask, they may be denying you access.
Keep the mask on your face for the duration of the procedure, while you are waiting and when you are vaccinated
Part 9 of 11: Wear a comfortable shirt or t-shirt
Step 1. The vaccine will be given through an injection in the arm
Wear a shirt that allows you to easily roll the sleeve over your arm, such as a t-shirt or shirt. You may feel some pain and discomfort in the affected area, and clothing that is too tight may make the experience worse.
If you are concerned about pain in your arm, keep an ice pack or cold pack in the car to apply to the sore area after your appointment
Part 10 of 11: Rest after the vaccine
Step 1. Some people report flu-like symptoms after the vaccine
In the 48 hours following your first dose, you may experience fever, chills, fatigue or a headache. Rest and drink plenty of fluids to speed up hospitalization.
- Once the first dose is injected, you will be monitored for 15 minutes to ensure that you have no serious adverse reactions.
- If you feel pain or swelling in your arm, you can apply a cold compress to the area to reduce inflammation.
- In case of serious adverse reactions, contact your doctor immediately.
Part 11 of 11: Make your second appointment once the first dose is given
Step 1. Currently, all COVID vaccines require two doses
Keep the card provided by your healthcare professionals so that you can test the administration of the first dose. Register online or in person to make sure your COVID-19 vaccination is complete.
- If you are given the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, you get the second dose 21 days after the first.
- If you are given the Modern COVID-19 vaccine, you get the second dose after 28 days.
- Many people report more severe side effects after the second dose of the vaccine. The process will be the same, but you may need more rest.
Advice
- Vaccine distribution may change as more doses become available. Check your local administration frequently for updated information.
- Both vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, use the same mRNA technology to deliver the antibodies. The main difference is in the length of time between doses and the temperature at which the vaccine is stored.
Warnings
- If you have severe allergic reactions following the administration of the COVID vaccine, call the emergency services immediately.
- If you have allergies to any of the ingredients in each COVID vaccine, avoid getting vaccinated.
