Commonly Asked Questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine
Q. Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe and effective?
A. The COVID-19 vaccine was determined safe and highly effective in preventing COVID-19 by the FDA, the government agency that oversees and regulates vaccine development and approval. Other countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also found the vaccine safe and effective after evaluation. At Providence, we carefully reviewed the data prior to making it available at our facilities. We always put the safety and well-being of patients first.
Q. What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?
A. We know there is a small risk of side effects associated with all vaccines, but the majority of the time side effects are less serious than the diseases themselves. The COVID-19 vaccine is no different. It may cause mild to moderate symptoms for some people. These symptoms can include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache and fever. In very rare instances, a more serious reaction may occur. We encourage everyone to talk with their doctor before getting the vaccine, so that they can make the best health decision for them.
Q. What are the benefits of getting the COVID-19 vaccine?
A. Like all vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine was designed to protect you from contracting the virus or to limit the severity of the disease should you contract it. We know from other diseases and their vaccines that we can slow or stop the spread of disease when roughly 60 to 80 percent of a population gets vaccinated. A vaccine can limit the spread of the disease by helping to protect you and those around you. This shot is our best shot at stopping COVID-19.
You can find more information regarding the COVID-19 vaccines here: