Concerns About Virus Exposure Before Vaccination: What You Need to Know

Please ask your question?

I apologize for bothering you, Doctor.
I went to the ENT specialist this morning because I had an itchy ear and a runny nose.
After the examination, I mentioned that I would be getting vaccinated this week, and the doctor prescribed me some antipyretics.
While I was waiting for the medication, the receptionist was chatting with me, and then a woman came in, sneezed, and coughed right next to me.
I quickly moved away and grabbed my health insurance card to leave.
However, I’m not sure if it’s just psychological, but later in the evening, I started feeling a strange sensation in my throat.
It doesn’t quite hurt, but it feels a bit scratchy.

I’ve been feeling anxious after seeing news about the variant viruses lately.
I wanted to ask you, Doctor, if I only sneezed a little and then quickly left, and I was very cautious about my breathing because I read somewhere that the gaps in masks could allow the virus to enter.
Also, I’m unsure if the variant viruses specifically have sneezing as a symptom, which makes me even more anxious.
Given that I was wearing a mask and had contact for less than 10-15 seconds, is there a possibility of being infected? Or am I just overthinking this? My family says that colds are common and that both of us were wearing masks.
I’m already nervous about getting vaccinated, and now I’m even more anxious.
I hope you can help clarify this for me.
Thank you.

Xiao Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/07

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, if you and those around you are all wearing masks and you have not had direct contact, your risk of infection should be very low.
It is recommended to drink plenty of water and get ample rest without excessive anxiety.
You only need to get tested if you develop cold symptoms later on.
As for the vaccine, if your symptoms improve and you do not have a fever, you can receive the vaccine.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/09/07

More Info

It's completely understandable to feel anxious about potential virus exposure, especially with the ongoing concerns surrounding COVID-19 and its variants. Let's break down your concerns regarding the situation you described and provide some clarity.

1. Risk of Transmission: You mentioned that you were in a waiting area when someone nearby sneezed or coughed. While it's true that respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, the risk of transmission in your case seems relatively low. You were wearing a mask, and you quickly distanced yourself from the person. Masks are effective at reducing the spread of respiratory viruses, especially when both parties are wearing them. The duration of exposure (10-15 seconds) is also a factor; shorter interactions typically carry a lower risk of transmission.

2. Symptoms and Anxiety: It's common to feel heightened anxiety about your health, especially when you're about to receive a vaccine. The sensation of a "scratchy" throat or feeling like something is "stuck" can be attributed to various factors, including allergies, dry air, or even anxiety itself. Stress can manifest physically, leading to symptoms that may feel like illness. If your throat discomfort persists or worsens, it might be worth consulting a healthcare professional, but it's also possible that it's a temporary reaction to stress or environmental factors.

3. Vaccination and Immune Response: Regarding your upcoming vaccination, it's important to remember that vaccines are designed to help your body build immunity against specific viruses. If you were to contract a virus shortly before vaccination, your body would still respond to the vaccine, but the effectiveness might be influenced by your current health status. If you feel unwell or develop significant symptoms before your vaccination, it would be prudent to consult with your healthcare provider about whether to proceed with the vaccination as scheduled.

4. General Precautions: Continue to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, using hand sanitizer, and maintaining physical distance when possible. If you're in a crowded or enclosed space, wearing a mask can provide an additional layer of protection. It's also beneficial to stay informed about local COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations.

5. Mental Health Considerations: Anxiety about health, especially in the context of a pandemic, is common. Consider engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or talking to someone about your concerns. If your anxiety becomes overwhelming, seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial.

In summary, while there is always a risk of exposure to viruses in public spaces, the precautions you took—wearing a mask and distancing yourself—significantly reduce that risk. If you continue to feel unwell or if your anxiety about the situation escalates, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. Your health and peace of mind are important, especially as you prepare for your vaccination.

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