The COVID-19 vaccine has been available for several months now, and many people are eager to get vaccinated. However, if you have recently contracted COVID-19, you may be wondering how long you need to wait before getting the vaccine. In this article, we will explore the latest guidance on this topic.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals who have had COVID-19 can receive the vaccine as soon as they have recovered from the acute illness and have met criteria to discontinue isolation. This means that you no longer have a fever and your other COVID-19 symptoms have improved. The CDC also advises waiting at least 90 days after receiving monoclonal antibody therapy or convalescent plasma.
The reason for waiting until you have recovered from COVID-19 is to prevent any potential side effects from the vaccine. Your body’s immune system is already working overtime to fight off the coronavirus, and introducing another foreign substance like the vaccine could potentially overwhelm your immune system. Waiting until you have recovered ensures that your immune system is in a better position to respond to the vaccine.
It’s important to note that the timing of the vaccine is different for those who have received the first dose before getting COVID-19. The CDC recommends waiting at least 14 days after receiving the second dose of the vaccine before getting monoclonal antibody therapy or convalescent plasma.
Overall, getting the COVID-19 vaccine is an important step in protecting yourself and others against the virus. If you have recently contracted COVID-19, it’s best to wait until you have fully recovered before getting vaccinated. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about getting the vaccine.