The Experience of Receiving the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine: A Personal Account
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Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 has been a significant topic of discussion, with an abundance of information available. While many articles focus on the scientific aspects of the vaccine, I aim to add a personal touch by sharing my firsthand experience receiving the Pfizer vaccine as part of the 1A group. Individual experiences may vary, but my hope is to provide insight into the emotional journey accompanying this medical decision.
The following narrative outlines my experiences with the vaccine, including pre-vaccination feelings, scheduling, the vaccination process, and post-vaccination effects.
Pre-Vaccination Emotions
As a scientist, raised by a pharmaceutical chemist, I place my trust in science. mRNA vaccines have been under development for years and pose less risk compared to traditional vaccines using live or inactivated viruses. However, being a therapist, I also recognized that this experience would evoke various emotions, which is entirely normal.
I felt a mix of nerves and apprehension. Although I had read about the Pfizer trial and understood that the chances of experiencing severe symptoms were minimal, my anxiety disorder made me dwell on potential uncertainties. Nevertheless, I felt a sense of excitement knowing that this vaccine could alleviate long-term anxiety and bring a degree of normalcy back to my family and me.
Despite my initial nervousness, I realized I would be even more anxious about continuing to work in a hospital without the vaccine. I recognized that the dangers posed by COVID-19 far outweighed any risks associated with a thoroughly tested vaccine. Once I committed to getting vaccinated, my clarity improved, and I felt relieved.
It's essential to acknowledge that a range of emotions is perfectly valid during this decision-making and waiting period.
Scheduling the Appointment
Being an employee in the hospital, I had received multiple communications about the vaccine leading up to my appointment. When I received the notification that I was eligible for the vaccine in the 1A group, I was directed to create an account on an online portal. After filling out a health questionnaire, I received a second approval through the portal.
Despite instructions to schedule my appointment via the portal, I struggled to find the scheduling link. I called the provided number, and within five minutes, they confirmed my eligibility, conducted a brief health screening, and scheduled my first dose, which was just five days later.
The Process of Vaccination
Visit 1
I was advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Upon reaching the University of North Carolina Rex Hospital, I found that they had transformed a conference room into a vaccination clinic.
The clinic operated efficiently, with separate lines for UNC-Rex employees and other healthcare workers. The initial check-in confirmed my appointment and registration on the government site.
Once checked in, I moved to a separate line for the vaccine. There were three rooms with healthcare professionals at various stations, all maintaining social distance. I was heartened to learn that the healthcare workers administering the vaccines were volunteering.
At my designated station, I was asked about any current illness, pregnancy status, or plans to conceive within the next month. I could choose which arm to receive the vaccine in. After the shot, I received a vaccination card detailing the date and signature.
Next, I proceeded to the observation room, which had additional scheduling stations and socially distanced chairs. Immediately upon entering, I was able to schedule my second appointment, which I found very helpful. I waited in the observation room for 15 minutes, where bottled water and snacks were available. After self-monitoring my time, I left once the 15 minutes were up, and someone checked in to ensure I was feeling well.
I was on my way after about an hour.
Visit 2 (Three Weeks Later)
The second visit followed a similar pattern. I had to wait slightly longer for check-in due to some people arriving without appointments, but I moved through the line quickly. There was no checkout required since this was my second dose. I stayed for 15 minutes of observation again and left after around 40 minutes.
Side Effects
Vaccine Dose 1
I received my first vaccine dose around 7:45 AM. While in the observation room, I experienced no symptoms other than mild neck pain (rated 1 out of 10).
On my drive home around 8 AM, I felt the pain shift from my shoulder to my neck and the right side of my face. A headache started to develop behind my eyes, and I experienced some stiffness in my jaw and cheek (pain rated 2/3 out of 10).
By the time I arrived home at 8:30 AM, my neck stiffness had increased, and my headache persisted. I felt an overwhelming fatigue, so much so that I couldn’t keep my eyes open, leading to a 2.5-hour nap. When I woke, I felt disoriented.
I noticed mild soreness in my arm but was most aware of the lingering grogginess that lasted until about 2 PM. By 4 PM, pain at the injection site intensified (rated 4/5 out of 10), which is considered normal. My temperature remained normal throughout the day, and I experienced no other symptoms.
On day two, muscle soreness at the injection site continued (rated 2 out of 10).
Vaccine Dose 2
The side effects from my second dose were considerably milder. Again, I received the vaccine around 7:45 AM. I felt a bit groggy in the morning, but it subsided after my coffee. By 11 AM, I noticed soreness at the injection site, though it was only apparent if I pressed on it or lay on my arm, rating it a 3 out of 10. I experienced no neck pain, stiffness, or headaches.
On day two, my arm remained sore throughout the day, fluctuating between 1 and 2 out of 10 on the pain scale. By day three, I had no symptoms whatsoever.
Post-Vaccination Emotions
Leading up to the vaccine, I felt a significant amount of anticipatory anxiety. While dealing with some symptoms, particularly neck and jaw stiffness, I felt moderately nervous but managed to stay calm, trusting in the science and previous trials.
By the afternoon following my first dose, I felt an immense sense of relief, a feeling that surprised me. I could finally breathe easier, knowing I had taken steps to protect myself and my family, even as I remained cautious about continuing safety measures.
For some, the decision to get vaccinated is straightforward, while others, like myself with comorbid health conditions, may grapple with uncertainties. I consulted my doctors to understand the risks and benefits relevant to my health concerns. Initially, I hesitated to share my decision with friends and family, feeling confident yet unprepared to explain my choice.
Eventually, as more people I knew began to consider vaccination, I felt comfortable sharing my status. A few may have disagreed, but I realized that the only opinion that truly mattered was my own. Once I disclosed my vaccination, I felt another wave of relief wash over me.
Takeaway
I hope this narrative provides a personal perspective that complements the existing scientific literature. My experience highlights how straightforward and well-organized the scheduling process was, especially considering the rapid rollout. I recommend having a hearty breakfast before your appointment (unless needles make you queasy) and arriving early to accommodate any possible delays. Bring something to read or a phone for your 15 minutes in the observation area if you dislike sitting still, and plan your visit at a time when you can rest if side effects occur.
Most individuals will encounter mild side effects. I experienced the most after my first dose, including neck, jaw, and face discomfort, headaches, and fatigue. The second dose resulted in significantly fewer side effects, primarily soreness at the injection site. Experiencing side effects should not cause alarm; however, if you notice increasing redness or tenderness at the injection site after 24 hours or if side effects persist beyond a few days, consult your healthcare provider. In the rare case of a severe allergic reaction, particularly after the second dose, seek immediate medical assistance.
As a therapist, I want to emphasize that experiencing a range of emotions during this time is completely normal. Many have faced challenges with decision-making during quarantine, and the choice to get vaccinated is no different. While it may be an easy decision for some, it can be more complicated for others, and that's perfectly acceptable. Ultimately, you will likely feel a sense of relief once the decision is made.
I feel reassured that I took a courageous step to protect myself and my family against this illness. It’s natural to feel apprehensive—being part of a scientific breakthrough and movement often comes with uncertainty.
For more information on what to expect from the COVID-19 vaccination, check out my blog on Psychology Today, "Letters From Your Therapist," or visit my website at www.drmarinaharris.com.