What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine? Is there anything we can do about them?

Video Transcript

Welcome to “A Virtual Q&A with Shoppers Drug Mart Pharmacists”! Join our pharmacists as they answer your questions on various health and medication topics.

What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine? Is there anything we can do about them?

Majority of the side effects to the COVID-19 vaccine that we have seen in trials and in real world evidence are mild to moderate in nature. Majority of people are going to experience a localized reaction, so that may include pain at the injection site and soreness in the arm. Some people may also report feeling unwell for a few days, so that may include a low-grade fever, chills, fatigue, headache and muscle ache, but these are also signs of an active immune system responding to the vaccine. These side effects typically resolve within a few days.

Whether you have questions about your prescription medications, over-the-counter products, immunizations, or other health concerns, our pharmacists are here to help.

The information provided is for personal use, reference and education only and is not intended to be a substitute for a physician’s advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional for specific information on personal health matters.

This information included in this recording is correct as of March 9th, 2021.