After you have had your COVID-19 vaccinations it may take a few weeks for your body to build up some protection from the vaccine. Like all medicines, no vaccine is completely effective. Some people may still get COVID-19 despite having a vaccination, but this should be less severe.
The UK vaccination programme has been very successful, with tens of millions of people vaccinated and many thousands of lives saved.
All of the COVID-19 vaccines being used in the UK have been carefully assessed for safety and effectiveness by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) before being authorised for use. The safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines continues to be checked while they are being used. Any member of the public or health professional can report suspected side effects through the Yellow Card scheme.
There is a chance you might still get or spread COVID-19 even if you have the vaccine.