What to expect at your COVID-19 vaccination
Today's the day I have my COVID-19 vaccine. I'm going to explain what happens when you come to a vaccine centre like the ones at Guy's and St Thomas' hospitals.
First we check in with a member of staff, they're very friendly and ask for details like my name and date of birth.
Don't forget to sanitise your hands.
You may need to wait until it's your turn.
While we wait, let's talk about how the vaccine helps protect you and others around you.
Sometimes we come into contact with harmful germs which make us sick.
Our bodies try to fight off these germs by making special cells called antibodies, but sometimes we need a little extra help.
Vaccines help by teaching our bodies to recognise a germ and make antibodies to fight it.
Getting vaccinated means we're less likely to get COVID-19, or if we do catch it, it helps us to feel less unwell.
It also helps to stop spreading it to those around you keeping your friends and family safe. Oh it's my turn!
The vaccinator asks us a few questions to check it's okay for me to have the vaccine.
Don't be afraid to ask questions yourself, the staff are really friendly and helpful.
The vaccine is given by an injection into the arm, it's a small needle and you may feel a sharp scratch.
Just take a deep breath in and out. Done.
Wow that was so quick I hardly noticed.
You may be asked to wait for a few minutes afterwards just to check if you are okay.
After your vaccine it's normal to feel tired and your arm might ache a little bit so just take plenty of rest and be proud of yourself, you're helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.