VIDEO: COVID-19 vaccine has mild side effects, UAE authorities tell residents

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) said that mild symptoms are common after receiving a vaccine shot in any part of the world.  

Nurse Ghada Mohammed, from SEHA Health, explained that any side effects of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine are usually mild and are normal. They can be treated with a painkiller.

The redness and swelling happens because of the jab and it can be treated with a cold press and rest.

Ghada said, “Mild symptoms can also include feeling tired and run down and would manifest within 24 hours of being vaccinated.

“Otherwise, if everything is normal after 24 hours this means everything is fine and the person is safe and ready to receive the second dose 21 days after the date if the first dose."

The photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

The UAE health authorities are urging everyone to get vaccinated.   

It said, “Protect yourself by choosing to vaccinate and continuing to wear a mask, regularly sanitise, practice physical distancing and follow all safety precautions. For more details on how to receive your free COVID-19 vaccine, visit http://doh.gov.ae.”

As part of the continuous efforts to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the vaccine is now available for all community members, except the following categories:
• Pregnant women
• Nursing mothers
• People with immunodeficiency diseases
• Woman planning to become pregnant within the near future (3 months from taking the vaccine)
• Children under the age of 16 years
• People with severe allergic reaction to any component in the vaccine.

The authorities have urged members of the public to inform their doctors about any medication they are taking and of any medication that they are allergic to.