Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine right after completing a nucleic acid test?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, whether one can receive a COVID-19 vaccine immediately after completing a nucleic acid test should be determined based on the individual's physical condition following the test and medical advice. After vaccination, individuals must remain on-site for 30 minutes of observation to ensure there are no adverse reactions before leaving. Upon returning home, keep the injection site clean and dry, avoiding contact with water to prevent infection. Drink plenty of warm water and ensure adequate rest.

Generally speaking, whether one can immediately receive a COVID-19 vaccine after completing a nucleic acid test depends on the individual's physical condition and medical advice following the test. This situation can be divided into the following two scenarios:

 

If there are no discomforts after the nucleic acid test—such as sore throat, dizziness, fatigue—and the individual has no contraindications to vaccination, they may receive the COVID-19 vaccine immediately upon evaluation and approval by the doctor at the vaccination site. Nucleic acid testing is merely a pathogen screening method and does not directly conflict with vaccination. However, individuals should proactively inform the doctor of their recent health status and test results before vaccination.

If mucosal injury in the throat or severe coughing occurred during the nucleic acid test, or if the individual is currently experiencing fever, an acute illness episode, has known allergies to vaccine components, or suffers from uncontrolled severe chronic diseases, vaccination should not be administered immediately. The person should first alleviate symptoms or treat the underlying condition, and only consider vaccination after their health has stabilized and been re-evaluated by a healthcare provider.

After vaccination, individuals must remain on-site for 30 minutes of observation to ensure there are no adverse reactions before leaving. Upon returning home, keep the injection site clean and dry to prevent infection. Drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate rest, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, and avoid spicy or irritating foods to help the body smoothly pass through the post-vaccination reaction period.