Your COVID-19 Vaccine Is Still Working Even If You Don’t Have Side Effects

• Many people who get vaccinated against COVID-19 are experiencing side effects in one form or another.
• Experts say these indicate your immune system has been activated.
• But if you don’t have vaccine side effects, you’re still protected.

Many people who get vaccinated against COVID-19 are experiencing side effects in one form or another — some develop a slight fever, others get a headache, feel nauseous, or are bogged down with fatigue.

Health experts say these reactions are to be expected and show that your immune system is doing its job and learning how to fight the coronavirus.

But those who don’t develop any side effects are left wondering if their immune system is working properly.

There’s been such a focus on the side effects that public health messaging has failed to address the fact that many people will experience no side effects — and that’s okay.

“Even if you don’t feel crummy after your vaccines, chances are your body still had a good, protective immune response,” said Dr. Chris Thompson, an immunologist and associate professor of biology at Loyola University Maryland’s department of biology.