Do you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine? We have answers!
This information is from staff at the Natsékhi Kų̀ Health Centre, Health Canada,and the Government of Yukon. If you have more questions about the vaccine you can call Natsékhi Kų̀ at (867) 668-7289.
Yukon will have enough doses of the Moderna vaccine to immunize 75% of adults. Here’s what you need to know:
How do you get the vaccine?
You must make an appointment to get vaccinated. You can book your appointment:
•Online at yukon.ca/this-is-our-shot
•By calling 1-877-374-0425
Vaccines will be available to every adult in Whitehorse 18+
How does the vaccine work?
•It works by teaching our bodies to make antibodies for the COVID-19 virus. These antibodies help us fight the infection if the real virus does enter our body in the future.
•Specifically, it uses mRNA to instruct our cells to make a response to the “spike protein” that isfound on COVID-19. mRNA technology has been used in vaccine development for more than 20 years. mRNA does not affect our own geneticDNA.
•The COVID-19 virus is not in the vaccine, so the vaccine cannot give you COVID-19.
How is the vaccine given?
•The vaccine is given by an injection into the muscle of the arm.
•You need to get 2 doses about 28 days apart.
How has the vaccine been developed and tested?
•Many scientists all over the world worked together to create this vaccine.
•Health Canada has approved the vaccine based on rigorous tests. They have made sure the Moderna vaccine is as safe, and as well tested as any other vaccine currently used.
•Thousands of people who took the vaccine in trials were monitored for at least two months after for possible side effects.
•Health Canada will continue to review all the available safety data as it becomes available.
Why should you get the vaccine?
•In order for the vaccine to work we need the majority of Yukoners – at least 75 percent – to take it. This is called “herd immunity”.
•So, by taking the vaccine you are not only protecting yourself, you’re also protecting your family and your community.
What are the possible side effects of taking the Moderna vaccine?
Studies show side effects are generally mild. These side effects could include one or more of the following:
•pain, redness or swelling where the needle was given
•tiredness
•headache
•muscle pain
•joint pain
•nausea / vomiting
•chills
•fever
•enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands) in the underarm
All of these symptoms are normal after any vaccine, and they are part of the body’s normal response in building immunity.
Allergic reactions can rarely occur after receiving a vaccine. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives (bumps on the skin that are often very itchy), swelling of your face, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Clinic staff are prepared to manage an allergic reaction should it occur. This reaction would happen within minutes of getting a vaccine, which is why you are always asked to wait 15 minutes after any vaccine.
Who should NOT get the vaccine?
•People with any symptoms that could be due to COVID-19 should not go out to get vaccinated because they could spread the infection to others.
•People under 18.
•People who are allergic to polyethylene glycol (PEG)
•People who have had any other vaccine in the previous 14 days
If you are unsure whether you should get the vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider
What do you do after you get your vaccine?
•You must continue to follow the Safe Six + 1until the Chief Medical Officer of Health advises otherwise.
•Do not receive any other vaccines until you have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine sand at least 28 days have passed after you receive your second dose.
•Keep your Moderna Vaccine record in a safe place to be able to refer to it when needed for your second dose.