As more members of the Birmingham community receive the COVID-19 vaccine, medical experts at UAB ensure the shot is safe for most people.
Dr. Erin Delaney, family medicine physician in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, said that while the vaccine is safe for most people 16 and older, it is important to speak with a primary care provider before being vaccinated.
“Those that should not receive the vaccine are those patients that have had a severe allergic reaction before to one of the COVID-19 vaccines or one of its components,” Delaney said.
Delaney said those that have experienced allergic reactions to polysorbate, other vaccines or injectable therapy should proceed with caution when it comes to the vaccine.
When it comes to reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine, Delaney said she recommends rest, hydration and using an ice pack where the shot is administered. Delaney said to call a primary care physician if reactions last longer than 36 to 48 hours.
Patients that have chronic illnesses are advised to receive a vaccine when it’s available, as they could be more susceptible to the virus.
“We really do want you to get the vaccine because it is those patients with chronic conditions that may be at higher risk related to the complications related to COVID-19,” Delaney said.
Delaney said she advises all age groups to take precautions against COVID-19.
“While most younger patients do quite well with the illness, there are still occasions where someone may become very ill and end up hospitalized and have those complications related to COVID,” Delaney said. “I would say most people would do better if they’re younger and have less health conditions, but we can’t guarantee that, we don’t know how you will do for sure even when you are young.”
In addition to masking, social distancing and using proper hand hygiene, Delaney said this is an ideal time to take care of health in other areas.
“The other things that we recommend to maintain your health would be making sure you’re getting plenty of sleep and exercise and maintaining a healthy diet,” Delaney said.
With additional UAB employees and community members receiving vaccines, UAB is hiring paid volunteers to assist with vaccine distribution.
“UAB will allow faculty and staff in workgroups A and F to work some or part of their regular, scheduled work hours assisting at the vaccination sites,” UAB said in an email.
To work during scheduled hours, UAB employees can click the link below.
After completing that form, click below to volunteer at one of the sites.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/hoovermet
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090c49acae23a02-covid
Non-UAB employees can assist by clicking the link below.
https://www.uabmedicine.org/web/careers/-/temporary-positions-available-at-uab-medicine
