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Vaccine Universe
Seasonal & contemporary vaccines

COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 vaccines protect against severe disease. WHO now focuses COVID-19 vaccination on the people at highest risk of severe illness, who may need a repeat dose over time.

Awaiting medical review

This page summarises the official sources listed below and hasn't been reviewed by our doctor yet. Check with a doctor before making decisions for you or your family.

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Administration
Injection into the upper arm
Where to get it
Ask your doctor or local health department which vaccines are currently available

What is COVID-19 Vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines protect against severe disease. WHO now focuses COVID-19 vaccination on the people at highest risk of severe illness, who may need a repeat dose over time.

Dosage and schedule

For people at higher risk, WHO advises repeat vaccination over time; your doctor can advise on timing. Saudi Arabia currently requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for Hajj.

Who it's for

  • Older adults
  • People with serious long-term conditions or a weakened immune system
  • Pregnant women
  • Front-line health workers

Benefits

  • Lowers the risk of severe illness, hospital admission and death from COVID-19.
  • Updated versions target the variants in circulation.

Diseases prevented

  • Severe COVID-19

Common reactions

  • Sore arm, tiredness, headache or a mild fever for a day or two.

Precautions

  • Tell the vaccinator about any severe allergic reaction to a previous dose.
  • If you had heart inflammation (myocarditis) after a previous dose, discuss this with your doctor first.

When to seek help

  • Seek care for chest pain, a racing heartbeat, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat after vaccination.

Medical disclaimer

This vaccine knowledge base is educational and based on public EPI/WHO sources. It does not replace advice from a qualified doctor, vaccinator, or local health authority. For missed doses, illness, allergies, pregnancy, immune compromise, or an unexpected reaction after vaccination, speak to a health-care worker.

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