With the COVID-19 pandemic, we have heard about various types of vaccines, right? Names like Pfizer, Moderna, Sinopharm are familiar to us now. Another important vaccine that has been added to this list is Novavax. Maybe you have heard this name, maybe not. So, today we will talk about what this Novavax vaccine is, how it works, and what are the most important things we need to know about it.
What actually happens with this vaccine?
Simply put, the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is a vaccine that reduces the risk of getting COVID-19. It is not a cure for COVID-19. That is, it is not a medicine that is given to cure the disease after it has already occurred. However, you can still get COVID-19 after getting this vaccine. So you ask, "So why take this?"
The important thing is that if you get the vaccine, even if you do get the disease , your symptoms can be greatly reduced, or the disease can be prevented from becoming severe.
This is done by 'training' your body's immune system to recognize the coronavirus and fight it. It's like an army being alerted to an enemy before it arrives and preparing for battle. Because our bodies are prepared in this way, when the virus actually enters the body, the immune system can quickly fight it and defeat it.
Things to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Okay, so now that you've decided to get this vaccine, there are a few things you need to tell your doctor about. These are very important because they will determine whether or not this vaccine is right for you.
Do not hide this information from the doctor. This is very important for your safety.
If you have one or more of the following conditions, tell your doctor before getting the vaccine:
- Bleeding disorders: If you have a bleeding disorder.
- Fever or infection: If you have a fever or other infection on the day of the vaccination.
- Immune system problems: If you have a disease that weakens your immune system (Immune system problems) or are taking medication for it.
- Other vaccines: If you have recently received another vaccine (including a previous COVID-19 vaccine) or are scheduled to receive one in the future.
- Allergies: If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine, another medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are hoping to become pregnant.
- Breastfeeding: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your baby.
How is the vaccine given? How many doses are needed?
This vaccine is injected into your muscle. This is usually done by medical staff in a hospital or clinic.
The most important thing is that to get full protection, you need to get two doses. The second dose is given 3 weeks after the first dose. It is a good idea to set a reminder so you don't forget the day your next dose is due. It is also important to get the same type of vaccine for both doses.
After you get vaccinated, you will receive a vaccination card. It will list the date you need to get your next dose. It is very important to keep this card safe and take it with you when you go to get your second dose.
Use for children
Although this vaccine can be given to children over the age of 12, there are special considerations. Therefore, it is best to talk to your pediatrician about giving this vaccine to your child.
Let's be aware of side effects.
Like any vaccine, this one can have some side effects. But don't worry. Most of these are minor. However, there are some things we need to be especially careful about. Let's understand these clearly in a table.
| Side Effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
| Severe allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. |
| Heart muscle inflammation | Unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands. Report these symptoms to your doctor immediately. |
| Symptoms that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Changes in the body | Chills , Fatigue, Fever, Headache, Joint pain, Muscle pain, Nausea, Vomiting. |
| Symptoms at the injection site | Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. |
| Swollen lymph nodes | Swollen lymph nodes in places like the neck and armpits. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Can there be problems with other medications? (Interactions)
Yes, some other medicines you are taking may interact with this vaccine. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, herbal medicines, vitamins, etc. Be especially careful if you are taking the following medicines:
- Some blood thinners
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer
- Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
- Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone
What to do if you miss a dose?
Do not miss your vaccination dose for any reason. If you miss a dose, call your doctor or clinic immediately to ask what to do next.
What if the dose of the vaccine is increased?
Since this vaccine is administered by a medical staff, the risk of overdose is very low. However, if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms after receiving the vaccine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. If you suspect poisoning, you can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Take-Home Message
- The Novavax vaccine does not cure COVID-19, but it reduces the risk of contracting the disease and its severity.
- It is essential to receive both doses 3 weeks apart for complete protection.
- Before getting the vaccine, tell your doctor about all the medications you take and all the medical conditions you have.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a severe allergic reaction.
- Although minor side effects such as fever and body aches are common, inform your doctor if they persist.
- Keep your vaccination card safe. It is an important part of your health record.
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