As we continue to battle the pandemic while under MCO 3.0 in Malaysia, the Covid-19 vaccine rollout has been well underway with many people heading to Vaccination Centres (Pusat Pemberian Vaksin; PPV) across the country for their shots. If you've already registered for your vaccine appointment and are waiting for the big day to arrive, here are some tips that'll come in handy. P.S. Save and share our ultimate list of hospitals and clinics to take a Covid-19 test in KL & Selangor.

How early should I arrive to my vaccine appointment?

Aim to arrive about 15 minutes before your vaccine appointment. Try not to show up too early at your designated PPV as it will cause unnecessary crowding.

Should I eat before my vaccine appointment?

Yes, in fact you're encouraged to. Having something nutritious can help the vaccination process feel a bit more bearable. While eating does not necessarily have any clear effect on the vaccine's effectiveness, it can help to prevent you from dizziness and fainting - especially if you feel uneasy with needles. You don't have to go heavy on your meal if you don't want to - just a piece of fruit and nut butter will do the trick. Remember to stay hydrated as well! Stick to either water, tea or any other options that aren't too sugary.

What should I wear to my vaccine appointment?

It's best to wear a T-shirt with a sleeve that can be easily folded up for the vaccination and a pair of comfortable pants. Bring a jacket along with you as it might get cold in some of the waiting areas of the PPVs.

Should I take e-hailing, public transport or drive there myself?

The most convenient transportation will depend on where you live and which PPV you'll be heading to. So make sure to plan accordingly by taking into account things like distance, traffic and your schedule for the day. If your appointment falls on a work day, notify your superiors and colleagues about it and take the day off. #HHWTTip: For those with appointments at World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), you can either park at the basement of WTCKL or at Sunway Putra Mall where they're offering RM2 flat rate parking for the first three hours. Click on the image below to find out more!

What should I bring to my vaccine appointment?

Credit: @worldtradecentrekualalumpur on Instagram

Identification Card/passport
Your phone with your MySejahtera app
If you have any medical conditions, bring any relevant medical letter or medical report from your doctor, as well as a list of your current medication(s).
Other: A pen, a portable charger and a water bottle

How do I prepare myself for the side effects?

The side effects typically kick in about 12-15 hours after the jab and can vary from person to person. Some of the most commonly reported side effects are injection site pain, fatigue, headache, chills, joint pain, low-grade fever and nausea. Keep in mind that not everyone will have the same experience with some feeling the side effects immediately after the jab and for others, two days after. It's hard to tell ahead of time how severe the side effects will be until you actually experience them (and if you do, don't worry - that just means your body's immune system is responding to the vaccine!). To prepare yourself for it, keep a bottled water near you at all times to hydrate. You may lose your appetite and feel too nauseous to eat, but it's still important to fuel your body. Keep things light by eating plain porridge, toast and crackers. Note: After your jab, report any side effects through the MySejahtera app. Visit the nearest clinic or hospital immediately to receive treatment if your side effects transition into something more serious like allergic reactions or if they last more than 3 days. You can also make a report online at the website at www.npra.gov.my.

Our writer, Ili, and her mother after their jab. We hope that with these tips, you'll be able to have a smooth vaccination day! ? Check out these other recommended reads:

COVID-19 Vaccination: Handy Tips To Get Yourself Ready For Your Jab