What should you know about the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine?

The vaccine presents the immune system with instructions that help it recognise a feature of SARS-CoV-2. It does not give you COVID-19. Protection can change as the virus and public-health recommendations change, so the schedule offered to you may depend on age, health, pregnancy, previous doses, and local guidance.

A sore arm, tiredness, headache, chills, or a mild fever can occur after vaccination and usually settle without specific treatment. These effects reflect an immune response, but absence of side effects does not show whether the vaccine has worked.

Tell the vaccinator about allergies, a previous vaccine reaction, pregnancy, immune problems, current medicines, and whether you are acutely unwell. Bring details of earlier COVID-19 doses if available. Remain for the observation period advised at the vaccination site.

For short-lived discomfort, rest, drink fluids, and use a suitable medicine only if a clinician or label says it is appropriate for you. Do not attend while feeling significantly unwell without first asking the service about rearranging the appointment.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives with weakness, collapse, or new severe chest pain after vaccination. Contact a clinician for symptoms that are severe, unexpected, or not settling, including persistent fever or worsening fatigue. New chest pain, breathlessness, or a racing heartbeat also needs prompt assessment.

Ask which vaccine schedule applies to you, whether a past reaction changes your options, and how vaccination should be timed around a current COVID-19 infection or another vaccine. Check which symptoms warrant review after your appointment.