What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease that is caused by a particular type of coronavirus that infects the windpipe and lungs which are part of the respiratory system. There are a range of symptoms of COVID-19 including a new continuous cough, shortness of breath and an aching body. The symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses including flu and a full list of symptoms is available on the NHS website. COVID-19 often gets better on its own but can lead to serious illness, which is why it's important to take up the offer of a vaccination if you are offered it.

How do I stop COVID-19 spreading?
COVID-19 is very infectious, spread by germs from coughs and sneezes. COVID-19 can be spread very easily through close contact with people who have the virus, for example via breathing and speaking. It can spread by person to person via small droplets containing the virus being released from an infected person and then picked up by another person by breathing these droplets in or touching surfaces covered in them. 

The best way to avoid catching and spreading COVID-19 is by getting vaccinated. You can help prevent the spread by covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and encourage children to do so, washing your hands frequently or using hand gels and cleaning surfaces you use regularly to reduce the risk of picking up the viruses. 

Can I have the vaccine if I feel unwell?
If you are unwell, wait until you have recovered to have your vaccine. You should not attend an appointment if you have a fever or think you might be infectious to others.

Should I get the vaccine if I think I have already had COVID-19?
If you think you’ve already had COVID-19, once you’ve recovered you should still get the vaccine as it will still help protect you.

Do I need to receive the same type of vaccine or booster as my previous ones?
No, all COVID-19 vaccines authorised for use by the NHS are effective and provide a strong booster response. When you attend your appointment, the NHS will offer you a safe, effective vaccine.

Are the vaccines safe?
The COVID-19 vaccine has a good safety record, and its side effects are generally mild and do not last for more than a few days. Your safety will always come first and there are rigorous safety standards that have to be met through the approval process.  

As with any medicine, vaccines are highly regulated products. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the official UK regulator is globally recognised for requiring the highest standards of safety, quality and effectiveness for medicines and vaccines. There are checks at every stage in the development and manufacturing process. Each of the vaccines are tested on tens of thousands of people across the world. They are tested on both men and women, on people from different ethnic backgrounds, and of all age groups. 

Like any other vaccine or medicine, COVID-19 vaccines are being continuously monitored for safety – the effected benefits of the vaccines far outweigh risk in the majority of patients. You and your healthcare professional can report any suspected side effects through the tried and trusted Yellow Card Scheme.

You can report suspected side effects of vaccines and medicines through the Yellow Card Scheme:

• online at Yellow Card Scheme
• by downloading and using the Yellow Card app on Apple or Android
• by calling the Yellow Card scheme on 0800 731 6789 (9am to 5pm)

How do vaccines work?
Vaccines teach your immune system how to create antibodies that protect you from diseases. It's usually much safer for your immune system to learn this through vaccination than by catching the diseases and treating them. Once your immune system knows how to fight a disease, it can often protect you.

Are there any side effects from the vaccines?
COVID-19 vaccines have a good safety record and are given by injection into the muscle of the upper arm.

Most side effects are mild and only last for a day or so, such as:

• having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection. This tends to be worst around a day or two following the vaccination
• feeling tired 
• headache 
• general aches, or mild flu like symptoms. 

Try these tips to help reduce the discomfort:

• rest
• continue to move your arm regularly
• take a painkiller, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen – some people, including those who are pregnant, should not take ibuprofen unless a doctor recommends it.

Symptoms following vaccination normally last less than a week. If you experience a high temperature, if your symptoms seem to get worse or if you are concerned, you can call NHS 111. 

Worldwide, there have been very rare cases of inflammation of the heart called myocarditis or pericarditis reported after some COVID-19 vaccinations. These cases have been seen mostly in younger men within several days after vaccination. Most of these people recovered and felt better following rest and simple treatments. 

You should seek medical advice urgently if, after vaccination, you experience: 

• chest pain 
• shortness of breath
• feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart 

Will I be invited to get my vaccine?
You may be invited to get your vaccine by the NHS nationally or your GP practice through a letter, text or email. Don’t worry if you do not receive this. If you are eligible, you do not have to wait for this before booking an appointment. If you receive an invitation from the NHS and have already been vaccinated do not worry, sometimes there is a delay in the information flowing through and you do not need to do anything. 

How can I book my vaccine?
To get your COVID-19 vaccination:

• Book online at www.nhs.uk/book-covid
• Use the NHS App
• Call 119

If you need support:

• If you can’t get online, phone 119 for help arranging your vaccinations. Interpreters will be available on request
• If you usually get your care at home, please contact your GP surgery to arrange a home visit with a local NHS service.
• If you are housebound or are not able to travel to a vaccination centre, your local NHS services will be in touch to make arrangements.
• If you have difficulties communicating or hearing, or are a British Sign Language (BSL) user you can go online at NHS.UK, use textphone 18001 119 or the NHS BSL interpreter service.

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