My COVID-19 Vaccine Experience

Since I have recently become eligible in my state, I was able to receive my first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine this week and I thought I would share my experience in case any of you are curious. I have to say I was surprised that I was able to get an appointment so quickly, after hearing my state was doing a poor job of distributing the vaccine. As soon as I heard I was eligible, I logged in to my account with our local hospital network and was able to get an appointment the next day. I was shocked it was that easy! 

When I arrived at the appointment there was a security check at the front of the clinic. Then there were several check-in tables where they confirmed your appointment with your ID, gave you a packet of information on the vaccine, and scheduled an appointment for the  2nd dose. The line at check in was quite long but since they had several tables it moved very quickly. I don’t think I waited more than 5 minutes. I was not asked about my insurance or told there was a cost, the hospital network made it clear they would cover all costs. I had heard someone at work recommended to take an over-the-counter pain reliever before getting the vaccine, but I did not do that because a) it didn’t hurt, so there’s really no need to and b) the CDC says not to do this because it is unclear how it impacts the efficacy of the vaccine. 

After check-in I was directed to wait in a line where they had a video playing with information about the vaccine, sort of like safety videos you watch while in line at amusement parks. I really appreciated how thorough the information was. It clearly explained that this was not an FDA-approved vaccine, that it had been approved through Emergency Use Authorization, and explained why it had been approved. It was nice to have all the facts clearly outlined for you, I appreciate the transparency. They also had staff on hand to answer any questions or concerns, and they asked each person to confirm they didn’t have any questions or concerns before leaving that area.

From there, I was directed to a table with a nurse who would administer the vaccine. She went through all the standard questions to double-check that the vaccine was safe for me to receive and then gave me my shot. She was lovely but I could tell she had had a long day. (I just want to take a moment to say thank you so much to all the healthcare workers out there who have been working incredibly long hours for over a year now. You are the true heroes!) 

After receiving the vaccine, there’s a self-timed waiting area with socially distanced chairs. I just set a timer on my phone for 15 minutes and browsed the internet while I waited. After 15 minutes I felt fine so I left. I know when I get vaccines I can sometimes get a bit light-headed so I went across the street to get an iced tea lemonade to spike my blood sugar a bit as a precaution. 

I had heard from family who have already been vaccinated that the soreness at the injection site woke them up from their sleep the first night after receiving the vaccine, so I took Tylenol before bed (the nurse who gave me my vaccine said to take Tylenol if I had any soreness or pain) and didn’t have any issues. When I woke up the next day my arm was really sore, but that is normal for me, I usually get very sore from my annual flu shot. Other than that I felt tired, but fine.

I have to admit I got a little emotional in the clinic. It’s been over a year and these scientists, lab workers, and manufacturers have come together to create multiple vaccines that are helping people across the world. The healthcare workers who have been working around the clock trying to stop this pandemic are so admirable. Especially those who came out of retirement to serve. When you take a step back to think about the efforts of all these people it is truly moving. Sadly some have lost their lives serving the greater good. 

Please look at the latest information from the CDC for all your vaccine questions. There’s ways to give back as well by helping the elderly or those without internet access get a vaccine appointment. You can read more about that here. As I said I had a surprisingly easy time getting an appointment and I hope all of you searching for an appointment do too!

Stay safe,

Livvy