In partnership with The Fresh Toast

Here are some of the most common dos and don’ts for people getting their COVID-19 shots.

Now that COVID-19 vaccines are available across the country, people are anxiously awaiting their turn to be inoculated. While the road is long and it’ll likely be some months for the general population to have access to these shots, we should all be preparing ourselves for what we should and shouldn’t be doing once this moment occurs.

We did some digging and compiled a list of dos and don’t for people who are on their way to getting their COVID-19 vaccinations. Here are some of the most important pieces of advice we found:

Get your shot as soon as you can

There’s been a lot of talk over feeling guilty because you qualify for a COVID-19 vaccine due to your work or special circumstance. Don’t do this. Even if there are other people who need to get vaccinated as soon as possible, passing on the opportunity to get a shot may result in that vaccine getting thrown out. For this pandemic to blow over, a large percentage of the population needs inoculations. By doing your part you’ll be helping others and speeding the process along.

Don’t get another vaccine for 14 days

The Centers for Disease Control recommends you wait at least 14 days before getting another type of vaccine or shot, including shingles and flu, once you get your COVID vaccination. This is mostly done out of precaution, since the COVID-19 vaccine is new and it’s unknown how it’ll react when exposed to other shots in your system.

Get your shot even if you’ve had COVID-19

RELATED: Vaccinating Adults Against COVID-19 Will Take A While — Here’s What Experts Predict

People who’ve had COVID-19 may think that they’re immune to the virus when that isn’t the case. The CDC explains that while some people build up protection from the virus after infection, this protection lasts for a short period of time, making it possible to get reinfected. While it’s also unknown how much protection the COVID-19 vaccine extends, it’s important to contribute with the process that way scientists and researchers have evidence of how the virus works.

Don’t get your shot if you just tested positive for COVID-19 or were exposed

One of the few valid reasons to skip your COVID-19 vaccine appointment would be if you’re sick. If you tested positive for COVID-19, were exposed to it or have been experiencing symptoms, skip your appointment; you don’t want to get nurses or other people in the hospital sick.

Read more on The Fresh Toast

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