The wider the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, the more people who are entitled to receive it. While there's not much you need to do before getting vaccinated, there are a few things you can prepare to make this process go smoothly and easily with minimal side effects. Make sure you still wear a mask and keep your distance even though you have received the vaccine for the safety of yourself and others.
Step
Method 1 of 11: Call the Doctor with Any Questions
Step 1. You may not have time to ask questions while getting vaccinated
If you're still wondering if this vaccine is right for you or if you're worried about something, make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor can explain the types of vaccines available and determine which vaccine is most suitable for you.
- Experts agree that some COVID-19 vaccines are safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, if you are concerned about something, consult your doctor first before making a decision.
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According to the recommendation of the Indonesian Association of Internal Medicine Specialists (PAPDI) dated February 9, 2021, for individuals with comorbidities, the following criteria are conditions that are not yet eligible for Coronavac vaccination:
- anaphylactic reaction,
- systemic autoimmune disease,
- acute infection, blood cancer,
- solid tumor cancer, blood disorders such as thalassemia, immunohematology, hemophilia, coagulation disorders, then the eligibility of individuals with these conditions is determined by an expert in the related field,
- individuals taking immunosuppressant drugs, cytostatics and radiotherapy,
- chronic diseases (such as COPD and asthma, heart disease, metabolic disease, hypertension, kidney disorders) that are acute or uncontrolled.
Method 2 of 11: Register Online
Step 1. Distribution of COVID vaccines is generally regulated by the government
If you are eligible for the vaccine, you can register online for a vaccination schedule. The registration site will show you which health facility you should go to, how to prepare, and what you will experience.
- Most health facilities only provide vaccines to those who have registered. As vaccine distribution expands, this may change.
- Governments and health workers may limit the number of people who can get vaccinated. Visit your local government website to see if you are eligible for the vaccine before registering.
- Free COVID-19 vaccine for everyone. So, you don't have to pay any fees when registering.
Method 3 of 11: Avoid Scheduling Another Vaccination at the Same Time
Step 1. Experts are not yet sure whether the COVID-19 vaccine can interfere with other vaccines
Wait at least 14 days before and after getting vaccinated against COVID-19 for other vaccinations. This will also reduce the side effects you may experience after receiving multiple vaccines at the same time.
Consult a doctor if you accidentally schedule a different vaccination in the near future
Method 4 of 11: Wear a Mask and Keep Your Distance Before and After Receiving Vaccines
Step 1. Even if you are about to receive the vaccine, you should still take care of yourself
Stay at home as much as possible, wear a mask when leaving the house, and keep a distance of 1.5-2 meters from people who do not live with you. In addition, wash your hands often to avoid transmitting COVID-19 to yourself and others.
Continue to wear a mask and keep your distance after getting vaccinated for the safety of those around you
Method 5 of 11: Wait At least 90 Days If You Have Been Under COVID-19 Treatment
Step 1. Experts are not yet sure whether COVID-19 treatments could interfere with the vaccine
If you have had antibody or plasma treatment for COVID-19, wait at least 90 days before getting vaccinated. Experts are not sure how long natural immunity after being infected with COVID-19 can last. So try to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
If you have been infected with COVID-19 but did not receive antibodies or plasma, you may register after recovering
Method 6 of 11: Eat and Drink on Vaccination Day
Step 1. Some people report feeling dizzy after receiving the vaccine
You can reduce the side effects of the vaccine by drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet before getting vaccinated. You may also have to wait in long lines before receiving the vaccine. So make sure to eat before you leave!
Method 7 of 11: Bring your ID card
Step 1. You need to show your KTP to confirm your identity
You can also bring your driver's license to the vaccination site if you have one. If you don't have an ID card, contact a health worker and ask what proof of identity can also be used. In certain cases, you may be able to present your passport or birth certificate as proof of identity.
- You may be rejected by a health worker if you are unable to identify yourself.
- If you have a health insurance card, it never hurts to bring it.
Method 8 of 11: Wear a Mask while Undergoing Vaccination
Step 1. Both you and your health care worker must wear a mask
When going to the vaccination site, make sure you wear a cloth or surgical mask that covers your nose and mouth perfectly. If you don't wear a mask, you may be denied entry to the vaccination site.
Continue to wear a mask while waiting in line and during vaccinations
Method 9 of 11: Wear a T-shirt or Shirt
Step 1. The vaccine will be injected into the arm area
So, try to wear clothes with sleeves that are easy to pull up, such as a t-shirt or shirt. The injected arm may be painful and uncomfortable, and tight clothing can make the pain worse.
If you're concerned about arm pain, have an ice pack or cold washcloth in your car for post-vaccination use
Method 10 of 11: Rest after Vaccination
Step 1. Some people experience flu-like symptoms after receiving the vaccine
For 48 hours after receiving your first dose of vaccine, you may have a fever, chills, fatigue, or headache. Rest and drink plenty of water to recuperate.
- After receiving your first dose of vaccine, you will be monitored for 30 minutes to make sure you don't have a serious reaction.
- If your arm feels sore or swollen, you can apply a cold washcloth to reduce the inflammation.
- If you have a severe reaction, you can report it to your health care provider.
Method 11 of 11: Register Again for a Second Vaccine Dose if Needed
Step 1. Until now, the COVID-19 vaccine used in Indonesia had to be given in 2 doses
So, after you have received your first dose, keep the card given to you by your health care provider as proof that you have received your first dose. You may have to register again to receive a second dose.
- If you receive Sinovac's COVID-19 vaccine, the second dose will be given 14 days after the first dose.
- If you receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, the second dose will be given 21 days after the first dose.
- If you receive the AstraZeneca-University of Oxford COVID-19 vaccine, the second dose will be given 28 days after the first dose.
- If you receive Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine, the second dose will be given 28 days after the first dose.
- Many people report more severe side effects after receiving a second dose of the vaccine. The process for the second dose of vaccination is basically the same, but you may need to take a longer rest afterward.
Tips
- Vaccine distribution may change. Check for the latest updates from your local government and health department.
- Pfizer and Moderna's vaccines both use mRNA technology to create antibodies. The main differences are the time span between the first and second doses, as well as the temperature at which the vaccine is stored.
Warning
- If you experience a severe allergic reaction after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, call an ambulance immediately.
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the COVID-19 vaccine, don't get vaccinated.
