How long after the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine should one avoid bathing?

Dec 04, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
It is recommended not to take a shower within 24 hours after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, primarily to protect the injection site and prevent infection or irritation. If there are no abnormalities at the injection site after 24 hours, normal showering can resume. In daily life, keep the injection site clean and dry, wear loose and breathable clothing, and minimize friction and irritation to the area to help your body smoothly pass through the post-vaccination adaptation period.

Generally, it is recommended not to take a bath within 24 hours after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. This is primarily to protect the injection site and prevent infection or irritation. If there are no abnormalities at the injection site after 24 hours, normal bathing can resume. The detailed explanation is as follows:

After vaccination, a tiny puncture wound remains at the injection site. Although this is hardly visible to the naked eye, it requires time to fully heal. Bathing within 24 hours—especially using hot water or vigorous scrubbing—may damage the skin barrier at the injection site, increasing the risk of bacterial infection and potentially causing symptoms such as redness, pain, and fluid discharge.

If body cleaning is necessary within the first 24 hours, sponge bathing is recommended, carefully avoiding the injection site and surrounding skin to keep the area dry. After 24 hours, when showering, avoid vigorously rubbing the injection site with a towel, use lukewarm water, and keep the bathing time moderate.

Proper care of the injection site after vaccination is important. Avoiding bathing for 24 hours is a simple yet effective protective measure. In daily life, maintain cleanliness and dryness of the injection site, wear loose and breathable clothing, and minimize friction and irritation to help your body smoothly transition through the post-vaccination adaptation period.

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