Many people have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine as it’s being rolled out to more people in Michigan this week.
Here are answers two four viewer questions from Local 4′s Dr. Frank McGeorge.
Flu shot
Question: “For the first time in 60 years, I had a negative reaction to the flu shot this past November. Should I be concerned about the COVID vaccination?”
The answer is no. There’s no known relation to how someone reacts to the flu vaccine and how they will react to the COVID-19 vaccine.
The only concern would be if there was an allergic or anaphylactic reaction to one of the ingredients in the shot.
Bee stings
Question: “I am 77 years old and allergic to bee stings. Could I have a reaction to the COVID vaccine shot?”
The answer is no. There is no known relationship between allergic reactions to insect stings and the COVID-19 vaccine.
The COVID-19 vaccine can produce reactions or side effects in anyone, especially with the second shot in people younger than 55.
Those are different than serious allergic reactions that doctors are specifically looking out for, and the reason everyone is watched for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine.
Waiting after infection
Question: “If I have COVID-19, how long do I have to wait before getting vaccinated?”
You can get vaccinated as soon as you are clear of any isolation restrictions.
Given the currently limited availability of vaccine and the likelihood that you would have some immunity for several months, many recently recovered people are delaying their shots.
Shingles shot
Question: “I’m due to get a second shingles shot in mid-February. Any reason that could cause a delay or complication in getting the COVID vaccine?”
The guidelines are somewhat arbitrary at this point, because there isn’t enough long-term information on the new COVID vaccines.
It’s recommended that the COVID vaccine should be separated from any other vaccine administration by at least 14 days.