Covid-19 Vaccinations

Here, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions from the community. You can access spoken word versions of this information by clicking the ‘Listen’ button at the top of your screen.

Booster Vaccinations

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself this Winter, if you are eligible for a flu jab or the Covid-19 Autumn booster, please get them as soon as you can. Check the NHS South Yorkshire website for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes, the UK vaccinations have been rigorously tested and meets strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set out by the independent Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Millions of people have now been given a COVID-19 vaccine and reports of serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, have been very rare. No long-term complications have been reported.

Do I have to pay for the vaccine?

No, the vaccine is free and you do not need to be registered with a GP to receive it.

I’ve heard there is a tracking device in the vaccine and I’m concerned

There is no tracking device in the vaccine. Vaccinations are a well-recognised way of preventing disease.

Is the vaccine safe for the BAME community?

Yes, the vaccine is safe for all members of the BAME community and is particularly important as we know individuals from the BAME community are more susceptible to illness with Covid-19.

Why should I have the vaccine?

Vaccination protects not only yourself but your family and the community around you. Vaccination is the best long-term protection against covid-19, if you are eligible for a booster please get one as soon as you are invited. 

I have heard the vaccine affects fertility – is this true?

There is no evidence to suggest Covid-19 vaccinations affect fertility in men or women.

Does the vaccine contain animal or human content?

There are no meat derivatives or porcine products, including gelatine, in the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine or AstraZeneca vaccine. Both are suitable for Muslims, Vegetarians and Vegans. Some people also believe the vaccine contains human product - this is not true. All ingredients are published in healthcare information on the MHRA’s website.

Is the vaccine suitable for Muslims?

Yes. The vaccine contains no porcine and is suitable for Muslims. Further information about the vaccine for Muslim communities, including information about having the vaccine while fasting, can be found via the Muslim Council of Britain.

Will the vaccine alter my DNA or change my behaviour?

No. The vaccines contain messenger RNA (MrNA) which tells your cells to make the spike protein found on coronavirus. When the immune system recognises this protein it builds an immune response by developing antibodies to fight future infection. The Mrna can not access or change your DNA and will not change your behaviour.

Frontline Social Care Staff Vaccinations

You can find more information via our dedicated Frontline Social Care Staff Vaccination page.

Proof of vaccination

For proof of vaccination use the NHS App or visit www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-covid-pass to see other ways to get your NHS Covid Pass.

Translations of easy-read COVID-19 vaccination leaflets

Public Health England (PHE) has published translated versions of easy-read leaflets on the COVID-19 vaccinations. The leaflets, which include information on what to expect after your vaccine and information for women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding their baby, are now available in 21 languages including English, Arabic, Urdu and Polish: Leaflets: Covid-19 vaccination easy read resources

Last updated: 26 October 2022 16:14:46

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