“Should I get the second Covid-19 vaccine?”
I am a 61 year old male.
-March 5 - was the 10th day after testing positive for Covid.
-March 29 - took the first Moderna vaccine. Approximately 5-6 hour hours later, I experienced fever, chills, headache, and severe cramps in arm that received the vac. - Lasted 2 days.
-April 26 - scheduled for the second Moderna vaccine. I'm very nervous about this second vaccine. I understand that I had antibodies from having Covid and that my first vaccine side effects were similar to what some people experience on the second vaccine. I've also read that there are studies that indicate the second vaccine may not be needed if you've had covid and had the first vaccine. Basically, I'm concerned that I could have side effects worse than after the first vaccine. If the same or less...I'm ok with getting the second vaccine. Just looking for reassurance/guidance.
-March 5 - was the 10th day after testing positive for Covid.
-March 29 - took the first Moderna vaccine. Approximately 5-6 hour hours later, I experienced fever, chills, headache, and severe cramps in arm that received the vac. - Lasted 2 days.
-April 26 - scheduled for the second Moderna vaccine. I'm very nervous about this second vaccine. I understand that I had antibodies from having Covid and that my first vaccine side effects were similar to what some people experience on the second vaccine. I've also read that there are studies that indicate the second vaccine may not be needed if you've had covid and had the first vaccine. Basically, I'm concerned that I could have side effects worse than after the first vaccine. If the same or less...I'm ok with getting the second vaccine. Just looking for reassurance/guidance.
Male | 61 years old
Complaint duration: none
Medications: none
Conditions: none
5 Answers
Presumably patient had a symptomatic COVID and one month later was the right time for the first dose of the vaccine. It is ok to get the second dose.
Try to explain to this patient that his thinking is PROBABLY correct, but not certain. His general health and social capabilities are relevant to the decision as to the risks involved. As his MD, I'd be willing that he go either way. We DO NOT know what could result from a "hyperimmune" reaction to another challenge.
YES YOU SHOUD RECEIVE SECOND DOSE
You would have been better off getting the first vaccine 90+ days after having Covid-19 symptoms as most guidelines advise. Based on your story, I would take the second dose, but delay it for 3 months. Cancel the one which is already scheduled.
Carl Lauter, MD
Carl Lauter, MD
In fact, it will soon be revealed that you do not need the second dose of the vaccine if you have recovered from the disease itself. The recommendation is not official at this time, however. You will have to confer with your doctor to make a decision. Thanks for the question.
