The Pfizer vaccine helps protect you from getting sick if you get Covid 19.
As you know, the Pfizer Covid Vaccination is the main vaccine available in New Zealand. (A second Covid shot option for those in NZ who can’t have Pfizer is AstraZeneca.)
Although it’s a relatively new technology, this vaccine has gone through all the usual safety checks and regulations set by MedSafe. This includes international clinical trials to help demonstrate the efficacy and safety of the vaccine. Consequently, people have been having the Pfizer vaccine as a preferred choice worldwide. Reassuringly, we know it’s also being continually and closely monitored for effectiveness and safety.
The good news is that two shots of the Pfizer vaccine significantly helps protect you from getting severe symptoms if you get Covid 19. In short, your chances of being hospitalised are dramatically reduced. Also, you’re less likely to contract Covid-19 or pass it on.
What are the Side Effects of the Covid-19 Vaccine?
Following a vaccine, our immunity kicks into action as it learns how to strengthen and protect in response. It’s not uncommon to experience this with symptoms or side effects.
Some side effects that you might experience include:
- pain where the vaccine was given,
- tiredness, headache,
- muscle aches,
- joint pain,
- chills,
- mild fever
- swollen glands.
Furthermore, these are usually mild in severity and only last for one or two days. Generally, these are more common after the second dose of the vaccine. Find out more about side effects here.
How effective is the Pfizer Vaccine?
Thankfully, the Pfizer vaccine is approximately 95% effective against symptomatic Covid 19, around seven days after receiving two doses. The Covid 19 vaccination stimulates your body’s immune system to produce antibodies and other proteins that will fight the virus if you’re exposed to it. So, it’s really important to get your second shot to get the full effectiveness. Additionally, after 6 months, getting Booster shot is important. That’s because our immunity wanes after some time. Quite simply, the booster does just that – it boosts your immunity with a new exposure.
Why it’s important to get vaccinated (for your health and your family wellbeing)
Amazingly, New Zealand has a full vaccination rate that covers the majority of our eligible population. It’s important because when you get vaccinated you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re also doing your bit by reducing the risk of passing on COVID-19 to your Whānau, friends, and community. As some members of our families arent able to get vaccinated – especially those under 12 or with specific health conditions – it gives them added protection.
Do I need an appointment to get vaccinated? Or can I walk-in?
Fortunately, we have two ways of getting vaccinated at East Care to suit your varied needs.
Either book or walk-in:
- Use the official Covid appointment booking system to make a time that suits you.
- East Care also offers the Covid Vaccination to walk-in patients between the hours of 9 am – 1 pm, 7 days a week
This applies to Boosters too.
How do I know when my last Covid-19 Vaccine was?
Check your vaccination certificate on My Covid Record to see when your second jab was, as boosters are required 6 months later, for those 18 years and older. No doubt you’ll have your certificate downloaded already or printed out.
Also, ensure you have not had another type of vaccination within a 2 week period; bring a mask, and make sure you are in otherwise good health. We look forward to vaccinating you and your whānau in our Covid vaccination rollout.
