Vaccine FAQs with pharmacy director Allen Broome

As director of health system pharmacy for USA Health, Allen Broome, Pharm.D., brings a high level of expertise to any queries about the new Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine now being offered to employees. We asked him to answer five questions about safety, side effects and effectiveness.

Q: How safe is the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine now being offered to employees?

A: The vaccine has been rigorously tested for effectiveness and safety. While some people have experienced minor side effects, and there have been rare instances where people have had stronger allergic reactions, the vaccine’s effectiveness far outweighs any risks.

Q: What should people getting the vaccine expect following the first dose? Second dose?

A: Pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain and fever are the most common side effects and should resolve in two to three days. Most people will experience more of these side effects following the administration of the second injection.

Rarely, severe allergic reaction may occur within minutes up to an hour after receiving the vaccine. Signs of severe allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, increased heart rate, rash and dizziness. There may be other serious and unexpected side effects as this vaccine is still being studied in clinical trials.

Q: What do side effects indicate?

A: These types of side effects can be seen with vaccinations and do not mean the vaccine has caused a COVID illness in the recipient.

Q: Are there people who should consider avoiding the vaccine?

A: Here are the guidelines:

• This vaccine is only intended for individuals 16 years of age and older.
• If you are pregnant or are considering becoming pregnant, please consult your healthcare provider prior to being vaccinated.
• You should not get the vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to an ingredient in the vaccine or if you had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose.
• Immunocompromised people can choose to receive the vaccine; however, they should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider first.
• You will need to be free of symptoms of illness, including fever, in order to be vaccinated. Temperatures will be checked at the time of vaccination, and anyone with a fever will not be vaccinated.
• The COVID-19 vaccine should not be administered at the same time as any other vaccine. A minimal interval of 14 days before or after administration with any other vaccine, including flu shots, should occur prior to COVID-19 vaccine administration.

Q: Why is it important for everyone in the health system to be vaccinated against COVID-19?

A: As with most vaccinations, the goal is to vaccinate as many people as possible to reduce transmission. It is also just one part of fighting the pandemic as we still should wash our hands, wear a mask and socially distance. Only by using all of the tools available will we have the best chance of reducing exposure.