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Precautions of COVID-19 Vaccination with AstraZeneca
Precautions of COVID-19 Vaccination with AstraZeneca
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µThe recommended interval between two doses of vaccines is 8 weeks at least. µYou may develop fever (≥38 °C) and myalgia after vaccination and usually will be relieved in 48 hours. µAccording to the information from European Medicines Agency (EMA), the linkage between vaccine and symptoms such as embolism and low blood platelet counts is rare and deserves further scientific research. But please seek medical attention immediately if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent abdominal pain, swollen limbs or cold limbs, persistent headache or severe pain, blurred vision, unusual blood spots under the skin beyond the injection site, and purpura within 14 days after vaccination.1 µOral contraceptive pills and hormone therapy are suggested to be discontinued at least 28 days before and after vaccination. µAstraZeneca vaccination should be at least 28 days apart from live attenuated vaccines, and at least 14 days from inactivated vaccines. |
- What you should know about COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca
The COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca expresses the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein gene allowing the body to generate an immune response. Efficacy shown in clinical trials in participants who received the full series of vaccine (2 doses) irrespective of interval between the doses was 63.1%. 2 According to Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) in Taiwan, the recommended interval between two doses of AstraZeneca vaccines is 8 weeks at least. When COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca is given for the first injection, the second dose to complete the vaccination course should also be with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca.3
- Who would be postponed for vaccination?
- Suffering from acute severe febrile illness (body temperature higher than 38.5°C)
- Taking oral contraceptive pills or hormone therapy in 28 days - Pregnant women
- Administration of live attenuated vaccine within 28 days or inactivated vaccine within 14 days
- What are the side effects after injection?
Get urgent medical attention if you get symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
Side effect that may occur with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca3
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Frequency |
Possible side effect |
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Very Common (≥1/10) |
tenderness, pain, warmth, itching, or bruising where the injection is given, feeling tired (fatigue) or generally feeling unwell, chills or fever (>38°C), headache, feeling sick (nausea), joint pain or muscle ache |
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Common (≥1/100 ~ <1/10) |
swelling or redness where the injection is given, being sick (vomiting) or diarrhea |
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Uncommon (≥1/1000 ~ <1/100) |
sleepiness or feeling dizzy, decreased appetite, enlarged lymph nodes, excessive sweating, itchy skin or rash |
References:
- Taiwan CDC, www.cdc.gov.tw/En/Bulletin/Detail/aq8HJ6HKIi41-tZIOZitMQ?typeid=158
- WHO, www.who.int/publications/m/item/chadox1-s-recombinant-covid-19-vaccine
- COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca package information