“It’s a safe vaccine and it doesn’t take long”

How did you find the process of getting your COVID-19 vaccine?

I had it on a Saturday about four weeks ago and booked it online when my consultant told me about them. I took my husband along with me of course, and there was no waiting element. When I got there, they asked me for my date of birth, they asked if I have any allergies, and asked me to complete a form which was very self-explanatory about if I'd had coronavirus or if I had any of the symptoms present. By the time I had completed the form, I was ready to have the jab. It was very, very quick; I didn't wait that long. It only took a couple of minutes.

How did you feel after your vaccine?

Of course, with any injection, you've got that stinging sensation, but this one was fine. I didn't feel any different at all. They asked me to wait 15 minutes after the injection, and my arm did feel a bit heavy, but that's absolutely understandable. The next day when I woke up, I did feel slightly foggy, a bit like flu symptoms, but that was the only thing I experienced. Overall, it’s so beneficial to have.

What do you think people with Crohn’s and Colitis are most hesitant about when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccine, and how do you reassure your patients?

People are worried if the vaccine will supress their immune system even further, and they want to know if they can get the vaccine. Those are questions I get a lot. They also have questions about the side effects. I always say to my patients that it’s not classified as a live vaccine, and they might get mild symptoms like the ones I experienced, but it’s been approved by the government and the side effects are very mild. I try to reassure them by directing them to the Coronavirus vaccine advice page on the Crohn’s & Colitis UK’s website. The information on there is very valuable.

What would you say is the most important thing to keep in mind when you go for your vaccine?

That it won’t affect your Crohn’s or Colitis treatment, that it’s not a live vaccine, and that yes, there could be side effects, but generally people need to remember that it’s a safe vaccine overall. It’s a quick vaccine and it doesn’t take too long. The experience is going to be nice and simple and easy to get through. The Crohn’s & Colitis UK helpline is available at any point if you encounter any problems.

What tips would you give anyone who was nervous about getting their vaccine?

Take someone with you if you can, just to calm your nerves down. If you’re needle-phobic, just remember that it’s only for a few seconds.