Pre Vaccination
When I first found out that I would be eligible at some point for the vaccine, I was excited. However, after hearing about various people with food allergies who had reactions, I was nervous. I knew the vaccine would be a good thing for me to have but I couldn’t get my mind off the idea that I may have a bad reaction.
However, I ended up getting a slot though for the Moderna vaccine in late March. I made sure there were EMTs on-site just in case I had a problem. I slowly became less and less nervous as the day approached.
On the Day of Vaccination
On the day of my first shot of the vaccine, I was ready. I made sure I had my Epi-Pen with me. When I arrived at the location, my anxiety was rising. I don’t know if it was because I was nervous or if I was just excited to get the shot- I think a little bit of both.
I went to the screening area and answered the questions. The people were about to put me in the 15 min waiting group and then I had to explain to them that I had a food allergy and that I think I should wait 30 min. The person who was checking me in had to confirm with their supervisor which was a little weird but then they gave me the sticky note of 30 min. I then headed to get in line to receive the actual shot. The person giving me the shot was nice but asked why I was in the 30-minute group. I had to explain once again that I have life-threatening food allergies and that they suggested I wait 30 minutes. The person nodded and gave me the shot.
I then walked to the observation area where you had to sit for 15 or 30 minutes. Since I was in the 30-minute group, I had to tell the head EMT person why I was in the 30-minute group. They requested that I sit in the front row so that they could keep an eye on me. I didn’t mind that and I sat down. I had my Epi-Pen on my lap in case I needed it so it was ready. In general, my arm was really sore and my throat was really dry. I knew it wasn’t an allergic reaction because I could still breathe. The EMT person came to check on me to make sure I was okay. They suggested water and handed me a bottle of water, which I was very grateful for. I ended up staying for about 45 minutes just to make sure nothing would happen once I left.
When I went back for my second dose, I had a very similar experience in terms of being in the 30-minute group and having to wait. However, my reactions were less extreme than the first dose. I had a sore arm and my throat was a little bit dry/sore but I felt fine in general. I did remember to bring my own water bottle so that helped a lot. I think I was also used to the procedures so I wasn’t anxious about what was going to happen.
Post Vaccine and Conclusion
After I got the vaccine, I had a sore throat for the rest of the day, and then the next day I was fine. My arm was also sore for a couple of days but I was still able to do everything I needed to do. I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to get the COVID-19 vaccine without any problems.
IMPORTANT: This post is solely recounting my experience with the COVID-19 Vaccine. This is NOT to be used in place of medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please consult with your medical doctor/provider.
