Guidance after two doses of the vaccine
Millions of people have now received a Covid-19 vaccine, which is the best way to stay safe and protect yourself from coronavirus.
How much does the vaccine protect me?
The COVID-19 vaccine reduces the chance of you becoming critically ill from coronavirus. You may still catch the virus but it is much less likely that you will need hospitalisation.
It is important that you come back for your second jab
Once you’ve had your first dose of Covid-19 vaccine you will need a second dose for longer lasting, maximum protection. You need to have the same type of vaccine for both doses.
It may take a few weeks for your body to build up some protection from the vaccine.
Do I need to socially distance and wear a mask after both doses?
Yes. Full protection from the vaccine kicks in around a week or two after the second dose but some people may still catch coronavirus, however it will be much less serious with the protection of the vaccine. We also don’t know how much the vaccine reduces the risk of you passing on the virus.
Finally, there is no evidence that new strains of the virus are not resistant to the vaccines we have at the moment, but this is still being monitored carefully.
Continue to protect yourself and others
To help to stop the spread, continue to:
- wear a face mask
- practise social distancing
- wash your hands carefully and regularly
- open windows to let fresh air in
- get tested – if you have any symptoms of coronavirus or have been in contact with someone who has.
