How do vaccines work?
Vaccination protects against disease by teaching your immune system to recognise a disease when you encounter it; vaccines do not cause the disease.1
Most vaccines are given by an injection, often into the upper arm.2
Will it hurt?
Vaccination may feel like a poke or a sting, with some pushing.2 Experiencing moderate, local pain is normal,2 and only lasts a short time.3
If you are worried, speak to your doctor about getting cream or spray to numb the area.3
Do vaccines have side effects?
Vaccines, like any medicine, can have side effects, like low-grade fever, or pain or redness at the injection site. These tend to be mild and only last a few days.1
Severe or long-lasting side effects are extremely rare. Vaccines and all their ingredients are rigorously tested and continually monitored for safety.1
I’m still worried…
If you still have concerns about any aspect of vaccination, discuss it with your doctor.
And remember, you are far more likely to be seriously ill due to a vaccine-preventable disease than due to a vaccine.1
