My Personal Experience: My First COVID-19 Vaccination Shot

Last week on Wednesday, I went to Price Rite Drug on N. 7th Avenue in Bozeman to get my first COVID-19 vaccination shot.

I had signed up for an appointment via the Price Rite Drug website a week prior. It was super easy to sign up, and the website is very user-friendly. It literally took me less than a minute to get through the signup process and book an appointment.

Once I had my appointment booked, I got an email confirmation. After news broke about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine early last week, I called Price Rite Drug to ask what vaccine I would be getting out of precaution. I was told that I would be receiving the Moderna vaccine.

My appointment was scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday. When I walked up to the window, they had all of my information ready to go and immediately took me into a room where vaccines were being administered. I had a few questions about possible side effects and what to expect. I was told that the side effects vary based upon the patient. Arm soreness was the most common.

I also informed them that I had tested positive for COVID-19 back in November, and was told that the first Moderna shot may hit me a bit harder due to that fact.

The shot itself was relatively painless. I barely even felt it at the time, but my arm was sore for about two days afterward. I was also a little tired, but nothing major. Other than that, I didn't experience any other side effects. The arm soreness wasn't bad compared to other shots I've received.

That was my personal experience, but I understand that side effects can be different for other people. I'm scheduled to get my second shot on May 11. I can't wait to be fully vaccinated and be able to spend more time with my friends and family.

For more information about getting your COVID-19 vaccine in Gallatin County, visit the Gallatin City-County Health Department website. If you'd like to schedule an appointment at Price Rite Drug, click here.