The Omicron variant is still spreading like wildfire but there are encouraging signs it results in a milder form of the disease than previous strains. Getting your booster Covid vaccine could be the deciding factor in determining how mild or moderate Omicron proves if you catch it. That’s because the Covid booster shots can supercharge the body’s immune defences, growing research suggests.
Despite the patent benefits of rolling up your sleeve for a third time, many people are hesitant due to the potential side effects of getting vaccinated.
It must be stressed that complications associated with the Covid vaccines are extremely rare, although short-term side effects are to be expected from the booster shot.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – the drugs regulatory watchdog – has issued an update about the side effects to expect from the Moderna booster vaccine.
Most people eligible for a booster in the UK will be offered a dose of the Moderna vaccine or Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.
The FDA revealed the “the most commonly reported side effects” by individuals who received a booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine after completion of a two-dose primary series.
These were:
- Pain, redness and swelling at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain and chills.
According to the NHS, most side effects are mild and should not last longer than a week.
“You can take painkillers such as paracetamol if you need to. If your symptoms get worse or you’re worried, call 111,” advises the health body.
