2 minute read
MYTHS VS. FACTS: COVID-19 VACCINE
Myths vs. Facts:
COVID-19 Vaccine
Advertisement
The COVID-19 vaccine holds a critical role in helping us fight COVID-19. Florida Blue Medicare is here to help with any questions, every step of the way. Kelli Tice Wells, M.D., Florida Blue’s senior medical director of medical affairs, has broken down the myths vs. facts for quick and reliable information about the COVID-19 vaccine. MYTH: I CAN GET COVID-19 FROM THE VACCINES.
MYTH: THE VACCINES WERE DEVELOPED TOO FAST TO BE SAFE.
Fact: You can’t get COVID-19 from the vaccines. It’s impossible. But you may feel some side effects for a day or two. You may have pain, including pain and/or swelling in the arm where you got the vaccine, a lowgrade fever, chills, tiredness, headache or muscle aches. These side effects may hit you even harder after you receive the second dose of the vaccine. But don’t worry. These are normal signs that the vaccines are working and building protection to the virus.
Fact: Thanks to existing infectious disease research, along with increased financial support and focused scientific efforts, the vaccines were developed quickly. Vaccines only receive emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when they’ve determined that the expected benefits outweigh any potential risks. Plus, the vaccines have been tested on a diverse group of people. Adults of all races, ages, cultures and ethnicities, as well as those with underlying health conditions, were included in the clinical trials.
MYTH: PEOPLE WITH ALLERGIES SHOULD NOT GET VACCINATED.
MYTH: GETTING THE COVID-19 VACCINE MAKES ME MORE VULNERABLE TO OTHER ILLNESSES.
Fact: While there have been a few reports of severe allergic reactions to the COVID-19 vaccines, not only are these instances extremely rare, but they are also easily treated. That’s why you’ll be asked to stay for 15–30 minutes after you get your vaccine so you can be watched to make sure you don’t have a reaction. If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction in the past, talk to your doctor for reassurance that the vaccine is safe for you.
Fact: It won’t. However, it’s possible to still become ill from exposure to other viruses. It’s best to fully protect yourself by getting recommended vaccines, such as the flu and shingles vaccines or the COVID-19 vaccine, and to stay away from people who are sick.
Safety is a top priority and vaccines are developed under strict guidance from the FDA. The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are continually monitoring the safety and quality of authorized vaccines. As with any vaccine, you should talk to your doctor about its safety and effectiveness for you. Together, we’re getting through this and with Florida Blue Medicare Advantage plans, all members can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at no additional cost.
Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. For more information visit floridablue.com/ndnotice. ©️ 2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.
