Vaccination Experiences: Insights from Those Who Have Taken the COVID-19 Vaccine

This article compiles the experiences of individuals who have taken various COVID-19 vaccines, including the JJ, Moderna, and Pfizer vaccines. By sharing their stories, we hope to provide a comprehensive and relatable perspective on the safety and effectiveness of these vaccines. Whether you are considering getting vaccinated or have already received your shots, these accounts can offer valuable insights into what to expect.

Experiences with Different Vaccines

JJ Vaccine

One of the early vaccines, the JJ (Johnson Johnson) vaccine, was the first choice for many due to its ease of administration requiring only one dose. John, a 35-year-old IT professional, shared his experience:

I received the JJ vaccine first, followed by various Moderna boosters due to the eventual withdrawal of the JJ vaccine from the market. I have no issues with the vaccine, not even redness at the injection site.

While the JJ vaccine was later paused, many continued to rely on it as a single dose. John’s experience highlights the benefits of a single-dose vaccine, particularly its convenience and ease of handling.

Moderna Vaccine

Moderna has been a popular choice for many, offering two shots and booster doses. Sarah, a 43-year-old school teacher, shared her experience:

I received the first two Moderna shots and three Moderna boosters. Within 30 minutes of the first shot, I felt like I had a bad cold, which lasted for about a day. The following injections left me with a sore arm for about a day or two, a standard reaction for any vaccine. I felt slightly run-down after each dose.

Sarah works in a school, a place where she is regularly exposed to respiratory infections. Despite multiple exposures and over 10 COVID tests, she has never tested positive.

Pfizer Vaccine

The Pfizer vaccine has been known for its high efficacy. Here are the experiences of two individuals:

For my 3rd dose of the Pfizer vaccine, I experienced a slight runny nose for two days. Just my usual shot reaction.

I have had all the shots, both the initial doses and the booster, and I live in Manhattan, regularly taking the subway and flying for work. I haven't caught COVID yet. Please get vaccinated.

Both individuals highlight the benefits of the Pfizer vaccine, especially in shielding them from the virus, a sentiment echoed by many who have received the vaccine.

AstraZeneca and Others

For those who have taken the AstraZeneca vaccine, the experiences have been largely positive. Tom, a retired 93-year-old, shared:

I experienced no side effects from the AstraZeneca vaccine. I am immune to COVID-19 at the age of 93.

Tom’s experience reflects the effectiveness of the AstraZeneca vaccine in older adults, especially those who may have comorbidities or weaker immune systems.

Less Obvious Benefits

Beyond the expected side effects, many individuals have shared less obvious but significant benefits of vaccination. For example, Linda, a middle-aged professional, shared:

Mostly not getting seriously ill. And the lady paramedic who gave me the shot was pretty cute.

Linda’s experience underlines how the vaccine can prevent serious illness and even bring a touch of pleasure to the vaccination process.

Conclusion

The experiences shared here demonstrate the varying reactions and benefits of different COVID-19 vaccines. While side effects may vary from one person to another, the overall positive outcomes are clear. These experiences encourage people to get vaccinated, not only for their own health but also for the collective good of society.