Recall that the federal government said it has concluded plans to make COVID-19 vaccination compulsory in the country, beginning with civil servants.
Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF) who disclosed the development said the fact that some countries have banned unvaccinated persons is one of the reasons civil servants should embrace vaccination.
It is no longer news that the pandemic has changed the way of life for most; outings, clubbing, partying can never be the same again. However, with the vaccine, life got easier.
The vaccine works as a preventive way to slow the surging pandemic, however, there are certain things that vaccinated people may be free to do which they previously could not because of the prevailing pandemic.
This does not mean that people who have taken the vaccine should be careless. Below are some things to do and not to do after taking the vaccine.
Not Using Mask
You are not considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19 until 14 days after your last dose of the vaccine, you still need to follow basic COVID-19 prevention guidelines. Even after that time, continue to wear a mask until there is a final solution to the Coronavirus issue, a mask is a must. Do not think that you are completely immune to COVID-19 after vaccination: No vaccine has a 100 percent success rate. You may contract COVID-19 even after being vaccinated but chances are the infection would be much milder. The vaccine only protects you from hospitalisation, death, and serious disease.
Lose or throw away your vaccine card
If you need a second shot, you will have to show your provider the timestamp on your vaccine card, so you need to keep the card handy. Apart from the point mentioned earlier, public places and transportation, including airlines, may start to require some form COVID-19 vaccine documentation for safety.
Not Taking Water
You need to stay hydrated after taking your vaccine; it helps keep you strong. Water helps your body process your body’s immune response to the vaccine. Plus, if you do spike a fever because of the vaccine, staying hydrated will help your body fight it off.
Not Isolating
If you visit a high-risk area before taking the vaccine, you still need to self-isolate for 14-days after taking the vaccine. Taking the vaccine does not automatically clear Covid from your body system. And if you start having symptoms of Covid after taking the vaccine, you need to self-isolate and talk to your doctor.
Taking Alcohol or Smoking
According to UNICEF, although there are no approved scientific studies that quantify the effect of alcohol or smoking on vaccination, it is advisable to avoid tobacco or alcohol consumption as it may aggravate and worsen vaccine side effects making the experience more stressful and unpleasant. Alcohol also affects the body’s immune system negatively and the immune response to the vaccine may not be as effective if there is excessive alcohol in the system. The same goes for tobacco consumption as well.
Eat a Well-balanced Diet
To avoid serious side effects, you need to eat a well-balanced diet. Superfoods like green vegetables, turmeric, and garlic, which are high in nutrients and boost immunity, should be included in your diet. Seasonal fruits rich in Vitamin C can also aid in fighting the vaccine side effects, this is essential both before and after taking the vaccine. Eating a well-balanced diet will help boost your immune system generally.
Get Enough Rest
When you get vaccinated, the body relies on immune responses to develop protection. It is advised that recently vaccinated people sleep for at least 7-8 hours as sleep deprivation can cause suppressed immunity since the body rebuilds its defence mechanisms during sleep. Not getting enough sleep can also trigger stress, which further suppresses the immune system. So get enough sleep and rest.
Apply a Clean, Cool, and Wet cloth (or some ice) Over the Arm
After the vaccination, to help reduce being uncomfortable and pain, you can apply ice or a clean wet cloth. You can also do mild exercise or use the arm for light activities to further lessen the pain and discomfort.
Mothers Can Continue Breastfeeding
The antibodies produced through COVID-19 vaccination could pass to the babies though milk and it may also offer immunity to the baby like other vaccines given in pregnancy do. Pregnant women can also take the vaccine, as approved by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare India and WHO.
Remember, keep safe and keep healthy.
