No, the vaccine won’t cause you to test positive on a COVID-19 viral test, such as the PCR or antigen tests. However, you may test positive for the antibody test, due to developing an immune response.
Related FAQs
Will I get COVID-19 from the vaccine?
None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently in development in the U.S. use the live virus that causes COVID-19. The goal of vaccination is to teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Sometimes this process can cause symptoms, such as fever. These symptoms are normal and are a sign that the body is building immunity.
Should I still get vaccinated if I tested positive for COVID before?
There is not enough information currently available to say if or for how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again, and more studies are needed. Vaccination is advised regardless of a history of COVID illness.
How many doses of the vaccine will I need in order to be protected?
The leading vaccine contenders require two shots at least three weeks apart.
What are the possible side effects from the vaccine?
The CDC states that any vaccine can cause side effects. For the most part these are minor, for example, a sore arm or low-grade fever that go away within a few days.
Do I have to get a COVID-19 vaccine?
While there is no federal or state mandate to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, all eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as they are able. In addition to protecting each recipient against infection, it is essential that a large enough percent of the population receives the vaccine in order to achieve “herd immunity” to prevent continued spread of the virus causing COVID-19. We must each play our part in this process, as we have in the past with vaccines to eliminate the threat of polio, measles and other viral infections.
Are schools requiring students to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, similar to mumps and measles? Will restrictions be placed on my child if we refuse to vaccinate?
There is no requirement for students to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at this time. UCF will encourage students, faculty and staff to get vaccinated in the interest of our community’s health and safety.
How much will this vaccine cost me? Is it covered by my insurance?
There is no cost for the vaccine. However, vaccination providers will be able to charge an administration fee for giving the shot. Vaccine providers can get this fee reimbursed by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.