UAE: Should you take a day off after the Covid jab? -News

Although the effectiveness of vaccination varies from person to person, UAE doctors advise residents to rest and avoid strenuous activities after receiving the Covid vaccine.

Dr. Gelan Sadek, a family medicine specialist at Medcare Medical Center in Mildives, said that after the first and second doses of the vaccine, “strength exercise or heavy work activities such as swimming or exposure to the sun are not recommended”.

Please also read: UAE doctors say that the new coronavirus vaccine is effective against Delta variants

However, Dr. Sadek emphasized that not everyone who gets vaccinated should take a full day’s rest. “It basically depends on the person. If individuals have strong side effects, then they’d better take a full day off. But for some people, there may not be any side effects, so they can spend the day normally.”

Dr. Anjali Bantwal, a clinical pathologist at the Burjeel Specialist Hospital in Sharjah, said that most people may experience mild side effects, but this indicates that the body is building immune protection.

“Some common side effects are pain in the vaccinated arm, swelling and redness, chills or mild fever, fatigue, headache, and joint or muscle pain.”

These effects will disappear within a day or two, so if someone continues to experience symptoms, it is best to see a doctor.

Others may experience severe reactions, including high fever, diarrhea, or vomiting. “Either way, immunity to the virus has been established,” explained Dr. Banterwall.

Other symptoms to watch out for include headache, fatigue, chills, fever, and nausea. “These are common symptoms after vaccination. If you experience any of these symptoms, please rest,” said Dr. Jyoti Upadhyay, an internal medicine specialist at Aster Hospital in Mancourt.

As the UAE continues to work hard to vaccinate the last 22% of its eligible population, doctors remind people that the number of vaccinated people is increasing. So far, approximately 78% of residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and more than 68% have been fully vaccinated.

Dr. Srinivasa Rao Polumuru, an internal medicine specialist at the NMC Specialist Hospital in Al Nahda, Dubai, said that with the emergence of five different vaccines against Covid-19, more people are encouraged to get vaccinated.

“As more and more people get vaccinated every day, it is important to check what to do and what not to do after receiving the Covid-19 vaccine,” said Dr. Polumuru.

“The person receiving the injection should not massage or rub the injection site. If there is any pain or swelling, they can use an ice pack.”

Alternatively, residents can take paracetamol tablets to relieve pain. “They have to drink a lot of fluids and keep their arm movements brisk,” he added.

Dr. Bantwal said that although serious side effects are rare, some people may experience them.

“These include itching, fainting, vomiting, severe allergic reactions, wheezing, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. If someone feels uncomfortable after being vaccinated, they should immediately notify the medical team at the vaccination center,” she explained.

Any serious side effects may appear within the first 15 to 30 minutes. “Therefore, 30 minutes of observation helps people get medical care immediately if there is any reaction,” she added.

Dr. Sadek emphasized that some patients will suffer this effect, while others will not. It all depends on the person’s body system and how the vaccine responds to it. “

What to eat after the injection

> There is no specific food to avoid after vaccination, but it is best not to eat spicy and greasy food. Recommend healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.

> People who are vaccinated must also drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

> Eating high-nutrient foods and taking vitamin C helps the immune system work better.

> It is also recommended to eat more anti-inflammatory foods, such as extra virgin olive oil, almonds and walnuts, fish, fruits and vegetables

What should I do if I smoke?

Smoking and drinking are not recommended because the vaccine will stimulate the immune system, and drinking or smoking will cause suppression.

Danusha Gukulan

Dhanusha Gokulan is from India and has been working as a journalist for more than ten years. For Khaleej Times, she reports on NRI affairs, civil aviation and immigration issues. She received a bachelor’s degree in journalism, economics and English literature from Mangalore University in 2008, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in contemporary media leadership and innovation at the American University in Dubai. In her spare time, she gets involved in singing/song writing, loves food, and is the mother of an over-enthusiastic Labrador Retriever. On her Twitter @shootsprintrite.