Minor side effects such as local swelling, itchiness, low fever or tiredness are not uncommon, and there is no need to panic. However, if these symptoms persist for more than two days or are getting worse, you should seek medical attention. It is best to keep a daily record of your symptoms for the reference for your healthcare professional.

2. Extra care for the elderly

If an elderly family member of yours got vaccinated, keep a close eye on them particular in the first two days. This is due to the fact that side effects may be more prominent among elderly people. Reach out to them every day after the COVID-19 shots so that you can react promptly in case any problem arises.

3. Keep a copy of your vaccination record

Even though the government will develop an application to keep the record in your phone, keeping a hard copy isn’t a bad idea in the event your device is damaged or lost.

4. Don’t miss the day for the second shot

The COVID-19 vaccine takes two shots which are weeks apart. While the government will give you a nudge through mobile phone, you should mark the date of your second shot on the calendar to ensure you and your family complete the vaccination programme.

5. Watch out for misbelief

They say the injection site should be kept dry so don’t take a shower afterwards. This is nonsense; in fact, it is safe to remove the band aid covering the injection site after a few hours and no extra care is needed. It is also said that one should avoid eating certain food after vaccination. There is also baseless.

Finally, while vaccination will offer us protection, nothing is for sure. We should therefore continue to wear our masks, perform hand hygiene and maintain social distancing in order to protect ourselves and our loved ones.