What should you know about the COVID-19 Vero Cell inactivated vaccine?

Vero cells are laboratory-grown cells used during vaccine manufacture. Inactivated means the viral material has been treated so it cannot reproduce. The immune system can still recognise selected viral components and prepare antibodies and other defences. A vaccine cannot guarantee that infection will never occur, but vaccination can help reduce the chance of severe illness. Protection develops after the recommended schedule, so follow the timing given by the vaccination service.

Temporary soreness at the injection site, tiredness, headache, fever or a generally unwell feeling can occur after vaccination. These reactions usually settle with rest and fluids. They are different from catching COVID-19 from the inactivated vaccine.

Tell the vaccinator about previous vaccine reactions, severe allergies, pregnancy, immune problems and medicines you take. Mention if you are acutely unwell or have recently had COVID-19, because the timing may need individual advice. Remain for the observation period offered after the injection, keep your record, and use the next-dose date supplied to you.

For comfort, move the arm gently and drink fluids. Do not start or stop regular medicines solely because of vaccination without checking with a clinician. If you develop symptoms such as cough, fever or fatigue, consider that infection or another illness may have a separate cause.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, fainting, confusion, chest pain or rapidly worsening illness after vaccination. Contact a clinician promptly for a persistent high fever, symptoms that are becoming more severe, or concerns about a reaction. Emergency symptoms should not wait for a routine vaccine appointment.

Ask which vaccine schedule applies to you, whether a previous reaction changes your options, and when an additional dose may be advised. You can also ask how to distinguish expected injection reactions from symptoms needing review.