Vaccination can cause side effects similar to COVID-19 symptoms, which indicates that the immune system is hard at work creating antibodies. This immune response can feel similar to an active infection. As more people of all ages get the vaccine, whether for the first time or as a booster, the question of whether a test is required to return to school/work after experiencing side effects from the vaccine may be confusing. Below is some guidance to help navigate that process.

When a test is NOT required

• The vast majority of side effects occur within 2 days after vaccination
• As time progresses, side effects resolve quickly (within a day or two)
• Most of the side effects are minor, such as pain of the arm and swelling at the injection site
• Other common side effects include: chills, headache, body aches, muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue (and in some cases, low-grade fever (below 100.4), nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea).  

These are normal reactions and do not warrant testing if they occur within the normal timing after vaccination.

When a test is required as a precaution

• Please stay home if you have a fever of 100.4 or higher

• If symptoms begin more than 2 days after vaccination or are worsening with time - the likelihood is that this is an illness, possibly COVID-19, and you should get tested.
• There have been breakthrough COVID-19 cases more than two weeks after vaccination. Even a fully-vaccinated individual with symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested if their symptoms fall outside of the normal vaccine side effects and usual timing explained above.
• IMPORTANT: sore throat, difficulty breathing, congestion, runny nose, and loss of taste/smell are not common side effects of the vaccine, and could be considered symptoms of a COVID-19 infection. 

If you begin to experience any of these symptoms, please get tested, consider seeking medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, and isolate at home.