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Warning-sign checks

COVID-19 vaccine - what you need to know: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services immediately for difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, collapse, confusion, or a rapidly spreading rash accompanied by breathing or circulation symptoms.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, shortness of breath, a fast or pounding heartbeat, or unexplained fainting.

    These symptoms require assessment even if they are unrelated to vaccination.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    For non-urgent questions about your record or another dose, contact the vaccination service or your usual healthcare team.

The article also says

Mild arm pain, tiredness, headache, or fever during the first few days can usually be managed at home.

Contact your healthcare team if symptoms are not improving, interfere with daily activities, or if redness or tenderness worsens after the first day.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on COVID-19 vaccine - what you need to know. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.