Amid the circuit breakers and the heightened alert phases, many indoor gyms and pools in Singapore remained shut for several months. This brought about a change in the way we exercised. In fact, the digital fitness boom made working out more accessible than ever before and hooked many people on.
But experts say it is time to put a pause to it, especially if you’ve just taken the Covid-19 vaccine.
This means the answer of the often asked question of “Can we do exercise after vaccination?” is mostly ‘No’, at least for some time. Let us tell you why.
Can We Exercise After Vaccination?
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Recent studies have proved that almost 50 per cent people who get vaccinated experience side effects. Fatigue being the most common symptom. Now if you choose to exercise with this symptom, it may just make your side effects worse.
The health authorities announced earlier this year that vaccine recipients shouldn’t exercise for a
week after getting their jabs. But is seven days actually enough?
Well, some health experts suggest waiting a little longer.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise For At least Two Weeks After Getting Vaccinated: Experts
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According to an
updated advisory from the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Expert Committee on COVID-19 Vaccination (EC19V) said that vaccine recipients, mainly adolescents and those of younger age, should avoid any form of strenuous physical activity for two weeks after getting their shots. This is applicable for both doses.
On September 16, the Committee mentioned that local and overseas data projects that there is a small risk of developing
myocarditis or pericarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, mainly occurring in younger persons after the second dose.
The incident rate after the second dose is 1.06 per 100,000 doses administered in Singapore. It is marginally higher in males who are below the age of 30 years. The rate is 4.84 per 100,000 doses administered.
Even though most of the cases reported previously have occurred within one week of vaccination, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has now started receiving reports of some cases that have occurred within the second week of getting the vaccine.
This is why, the committee is advising people–who are getting vaccinated–to avoid any form of strenuous activity for two weeks after both doses, especially if they are young.
The Committee further mentioned that during this time, the recipients should seek medical attention if they develop any kind of chest pain or shortness of breath.
So far, most local cases of vaccine-related myocarditis in the younger population have been mild. They have also responded well to the treatment and have recovered well from the hospital.
Activities like swimming, cycling and even running need to be avoided. The list of avoidable activities also includes jogging, lifting heavy weights, and playing competitive sports.
Physical activities like housework, walking, and even stretching are safe and can be done after getting your vaccination.
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Symptoms To Take Note Of
It is very important to be aware of the common vaccine side effects, for instance, redness, fever, fatigue and nausea.
While the side effects go away within a few days post vaccination, CDC suggests using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to manage vaccine side effects.
Some people may also develop allergic reactions to the vaccines, like wheezing, swelling or hives. These symptoms usually occur within four hours of receiving the vaccine. If you happen to experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.
Also, if you have a history of respiratory issues, like asthma, it is recommended that you avoid any form of vigorous aerobic exercise for some time.
Now that we know what should be avoided after getting the vaccination, here are some things to avoid before getting your jabs.
Here’s What You Need To Avoid Before Getting Your Vaccination
- It is important to avoid alcohol before getting your vaccination. The reason being, it can cause dehydration and make your nausea worse.
- Avoid trying any new products, for instance, new food or even a new cosmetic before and after your vaccination.
- Have a hearty meal before you get your jab.
Finally, once you are done with your vaccination, get good sleep, drink enough water and don’t forget to rest!
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