I booked an appointment but it’s a little far away. Wanted to ensure to get an appointment ASAP, even if it means a long drive. Grandson done with this COVID ish and ready to get on with life again.
Trying to help others get the vaccine, but some can’t go very far away from where they live, and appointments are not so easy to get.
my father-in-law (vietnam vet, vaccinated through the va) has had both shots now. the first shot had no effect on him. the second one made him sleep more for a few days. other than that, no side effects.
Got both doses (Moderna). Arm was sore for a day or two but no other complications. About 20% to 30% of recipients of either Moderna or Pfizer report fever, soreness, swelling for a day or two after second shot but then fine.
My folks got it in AZ, at a drive-through operation, the first short was at 12:35 AM (they are doing it 24×7) in AZ. My dad commented that it was all ‘young people’ doing the shots and what a great job they did. My dad making that comment really made me smile.
My in-laws got it in Florida.
My wife got it on day 3 since she sees patients who are at high risk and was going into facilities with active outbreaks.
She also administered the vaccine at her hospital for staff, the first time she had given a shot in almost 20 years (before they had the safety guards on the needles), she did that for a couple of weeks before the chargebacks and payroll got too complicated. Since she is a higher-level practitioner she spent most of her time at the vaccination site looking for and addressing reactions. Also early on, everyone wanted a picture taken to show nervous family members that they were getting vaccinated.
Get my second shot (due to my hospital volunteer work) later this week.
First shot last week (Moderna) on Thursday. Bad headache and some flu like symptoms on Friday but better by Saturday afternoon. Family member had second shot of Merderna last week and has 102 fever for about 12 hours and felt fine after that.
Thanks to 1b category I got my first shot this morning, no issues so far. I went an hour early because I was on the right side of town and they took me with a smile. Second shot is scheduled. I got the appointment on the county website at 11:00 a.m. yesterday.
Got both Moderna shots already at the Tinley Park Convention Center. Was VERY tired for 1 day after the first shot, had body/joint aches after 2nd. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Well run operation at TPCC.
My wife and I have both had the first shot. She got the Pfizer and felt sick the next day. I had the Moderna and felt a little sluggish the next day. Our second shots are upcoming this weekend.
Still on the hunt in the Cook County Hunger Game. I am definitely in 1B, but reside in Northwest Suburbs where the vaccines seem to be non-existent. Maybe someday, hopefully …
On several waiting lists NW med, Amita, DuPage Medical Group, Walgreens, Meijer, CVS, County Health.
All of them are out of vaccine or are only doing second shots right now. When the next big shipments come in, I will probably get multiple invitations. My doctor has advised me to get any of the vaccines as soon as they become available, regardless of the manufacturer. Still in quarantine.
Both my parents are older than 75. My dad has had both shots, and my mom awaits her second. They are in the Quad Cities and my dad (with an appointment) waited 8 hours in his car for his first shot. Two weeks later when my mom could get hers it was a 20 minute wait in the car. Very happy the process was streamlined.
I’ve seen the process out the National Guard site at the fairgrounds and it’s impressive. Can’t wait for the J and J shot to improve things even more.
Very, very excited about the progress on the vaccine front. IDPH hospitalization numbers show current usage trending lower than it was during the summer.
2nd round of Moderna completed 10 days ago - 1st shot resulted in a tender arm and 2nd dose resulted in a low grade temp and fatigue. I qualified for the vaccine as a substitute teacher and I’m very grateful.
Wife who works for a hospital system got her first in December and second in mid-January. The second made her sleep for three days (that’s an exaggeration, but not by much). The entire household is increasingly more jealous by the day. On the plus side - she has to do ALL the shopping now.
In-laws all have their first shot and seem to be doing fine. I’m 1C and when they open up that cohort, I imagine the rush will make the relative scarcity now look quaint. I’m confident though - I never get shut out of in-demand concert tickets and I know these websites from scheduling the in-laws now, so I *think* I have the skills to get an appointment.
Parents have had both shots at their assisted living facility. Has not resulted in removal of any restriction yet though.
I got my first one Saturday at the state fairgrounds. Highly organized, in and out in 30 minutes. Sore arm. Bad headache in back of head- relieved by sinus meds. Appointment for 2nd shot made before I left the building.
My parents got their second doses of Moderna Friday. Dad had an allergic reaction (hives) and needs to take bendryl every 6 hours. I get my second dose Wednesday (Pfizer) as an essential worker and am a little concerned about making it to court the next day but I didn’t get a choice in scheduling the second shot. I am extremely concerned about how little vaccine McLean County is getting compared to Champaign and Peoria counties.
I had my second shot of Moderna last Wed at noon. I could not get warm Wed or Thurs and slept Thurs afternoon. Thurs night I had a temp of 104 degree. I woke up Friday morning refreshed and ready to go and felt great.
My wife tested positive five days after the first shot. She was able to get an infusion and now has to wait 90 days to start the process over.
My wife, a special Education Aide is getting vaccinated with the Moderna Vaccine this coming Wednesday. She has been back in school since January 11th. So far, so good.
I’m a disabled USMC vet, and the VA has not contacted me yet, but being 4 months short of my 65th birthday, I’m kinda screwed vaccine-wise.
Had no luck finding appointments in Kane County for elderly parents–so they drove 130 miles to get vaccinated at a Walgreens in Urbana in mid-February. Such a relief, but why are we asking our seniors to drive 2 1/2 hours to get vaccinated?
My wife, a special Education Aide is getting vaccinated with the Moderna Vaccine this coming Wednesday. She has been back in school since January 11th. So far, so good.
I’m a disabled USMC vet, and the VA has not contacted me yet, but being 4 months short of my 65th birthday, I’m on the outs vaccine-wise.
My wife (underlying heath condition) and my son (essential worker) have both received their first shot. Parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles have all received one or two shots, largely because my wife has made vaccine navigation her second job.
She has successfully scheduled appointments for family in half a dozen states through a mix of a million waitlists, dozens of open tabs in her browser, and setting her alarm for midnight to be up when new appointments load.
It is wonderful she has helped so many get shots and atrocious that this is what it takes to get people in. Here’s hoping this landscape changes in the next few weeks.
- Diogenes in DuPage - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:56 pm:
Son #1 and his wife are educators and were vaccinated with their fellow staff members in conjunction with the county health department. Son #2 is a pharmacist and was vaccinated with other health care workers. He also is now giving vaccinations, and vaccinated his wife and mother (who is 65 with emphysema) with vaccines within hours of expiration time. I am wintering in Florida, and as a “tourist” cannot be vaccinated here. But I am very active, and am spending most waking hours outside. (Almost everyone here is wearing masks and acting safely/sanely.) Hopefully, the vaccine will be more plentiful upon my return to Illinois in April.
Second shot late this week. Moderna, administered at SCDPH drive through. First shot took 22 minutes and that included the 15 minute wait. They are very organized, efficient and kind. It’s a very happy place. All they need is more vaccine. No real side effects - just a slightly sore, itchy spot at the injection site, similar to my reaction to a flu shot.
My wife works for the school district and has received both doses. Pain at the injection site after first one and flu-like symptoms for 24 hours following second. I am now eligible and plan to schedule mine in the near future.
Got 2nd shot 2 weeks ago (Moderna) No issues after first one, joint pain after shot 2 in areas that have had past surgeries (shoulders, knees and wrist) lasted a couple days and was controlled by ibuprofen
My wife and I both got the first dose at McCormick center. Really good system they’ve organized there. Arm was sore for a couple days, no other side effects.
I’m disabled and severely ill. Chicago isn’t starting phase 1C for people with at-risk medical conditions until March 29, and they’re already saying that will probably be delayed. It’s extremely frustrating.
Myself, wife, mother, dad, daughter and sister-in-law have all have both doses. I have had covid and so has the wife according to the Kroger blood test.We went to the local hospital and they got theirs at the local school that has a wellness center.
My father (84 years old), as of Friday hadn’t yet been contacted by the hospital to make an appointment.
My wife was told by her doctor when she was in to see him last week that he expects to get access to the Moderna vaccine and that he would notify her when he does so.
I’m between 60 and 65 with no co-morbidities. I will be an election judge on April 6, but that doesn’t qualify as an essential person under 1B. I assume I’ll be getting one towards the end of the line.
I second @Rayne of Terror’s concern about McLean County’s lack of doses in comparison to Peoria/Champaign counties.
Thankfully my 65+ loved ones have all now secured their first doses of the vaccine after them having had to scour websites for appointments for six weeks. A sibling and sibling’s spouse who are both essential workers have gotten both doses. No severe symptoms reported for anyone. No major symptoms for anybody.
Husband has had both shots(Moderna) and I have had both shots (Pfizer) thru hospital system (both of us over 65). Had a fever and chills for a day after second shot. Catholica hospital , very well organized. They contacted us via patient portal. Amazed that we were lucky enough to get it with no hassle.
Son is an EMT and has had both doses (Moderna), with significant reaction after the second dose, and completely recovery after 72 hours. Wife, an essential worker, just received first dose. No reaction. I work in a public building and have been required to self-quarantine three separate times because of significant contact with co-workers who’ve tested positive. Will County’s rollout has been disappointing, to say the least, with some public offices jumping the line.
I got my first shot ( Pfizer ) in January and my second on February 9. I was fortunate ( if that is possible ) to have had enough mitigating factors to be included in that first group. And again, fortunately, the only reaction to either shot was a slightly sore arm/shoulder for a day or two.
Dropped mom off for her 2nd shot at 915 this morning at Prarie Heart, Springfield and back on road at 940. She was thrilled how smooth their process was.
Went out and visited dad’s grave after, too bad vaccine wasn’t available in September.
Hubby got second shot last week. Had chills and joint pain, spiked a temp, everything smelled/tasted like gasoline to him. It was exactly like his second COVID infection in November, except all symptoms disappeared after 48 hours.
No, and I’m sort of disappointed at the categorization. I’m mid 50s with a pretty serious underlying heart condition.
Not to whine “me first”, but at the same time, people with serious underlying conditions seem to be treated the same as those without even though if we get it, we are substantially less likely to survive.
In the meantime, I’m sticking with the mask, social distancing as I can, and a lot of hand washing and use of hand sanitizer.
I’ve gotten the Pfizer shots as I’m a volunteer FF in my town. My wife will probably be one of the last to get vaccinated and she’s not in any of the essential worker or aged or at-risk groups.
Side effects included a sore arm (somewhere between flu shot-sore and tetanus shot-sore) and some fatigue for the first 24-48 hours. After that perfectly fine. Easy peasy.
After trying to deal with the McLean County’s vaccine site for over a month, I took the advice of a friend and went to the IDPH website–https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/vaccination-location
I was told to go to this site on Thursday morning right after midnight. Seems the site is updated at that time.
I put in my zip code and got a list of pharmacies in the county that have vaccine available. There I was able to get an appointment from Krogers in Normal for both my first and second shots.
My appts had to be changed due to a glitch in the software but I got my first shot on Feb 27 with no side effects. I get my second one on March 30.
- Retired and Still in Illinois - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:38 pm:
Got my first a couple of weeks ago and get my second on Saturday along with my in laws, both in late 80’s. Wife gets her second on Wednesday. No issue with the first. Sort of expecting to feel a little sick after the second (Pfizer) based on others I’ve talked too.
Got my first shot on Friday at Walgreens thanks to the expansion of 1b to high risk individuals. I feel a bit guilty since I’m still young, but both my doctor and the health department said I was eligible and my doctor encouraged me to get it because of my underlying health condition. I was given Pfizer and my only symptoms were a headache, some insomnia and a MAJOR achy arm. I felt like I got punched by a heavy weight boxer. Still light years better than Covid and I eagerly await my appointment for my second dose.
Vaccinated, first shot, on Friday. County health department running vaccines through the hospitals. Very smooth, 25 minutes in and out, including 15 minutes after shot to wait out reaction time. Moderna. Some aching muscles and headache on Sunday. Good today.
Received my second shot on Friday, Feb. 26. Easily registered through NWMH My Chart platform. So far, all is good.
- Former Rep Dr. David Miller - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:56 pm:
Yes, I am a frontliner and had them both. First one i was fine, after the 2nd one, I felt a little chills that night and went to bed a little early. After that, I was fine. The arm was sore but no more than a flu shot….
- Gruntled University Employee - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:57 pm:
My wife, the Dental Hygienist, has had both doses. I get my 2nd dose tomorrow. Not sure when our 16 year old daughter will be able to get hers.
Finally got mine. Not through the county, but from a local hospital where I was placed on a “leftovers” list for at the end of the day. Got two Moderna shots and got a little sick for about 36 hours each time. I also had COVID back in the fall. Feeling much better that the daily rate of vaccinated people is growing albeit slowly.
I got my first shot ten days ago, Pfizer, and had a sore arm the next day. My next shot is scheduled for 3/12. As an educator, I’m grateful for the chance to receive the vaccinations before I return to the classroom at the end of the month, as I’m in a high risk category.
Just got vaccinated over the weekend with Moderna. Mrs RNUG will be in a couple of days; her Doctor wanted her to wait 4 weeks after her second shingles shot.
I made sure to move my arm off and on the rest of the day after my shot. The following day a bit of soreness at the injection site but no other side effects.
I qualify in the expanded 1B group but I’ve yet to find anywhere actually taking the 1B+, everywhere I’ve checked is still restricting to only the original 1B group.
I’m scheduled for the second shot of the Pfizer vaccine a week from today. One of the few advantages of being “elderly” is that I’ve qualified for the vaccine. No issues with the first shot.
Both parents and my mother-in-law are vaccinated as is my wife’s grandmother. It looks like April is for fat guys in Minnesota as that is the estimate for me (and being fat is part of that estimate).
A prelude - had a bad case of COVID in the fall that put me out for a couple of weeks and continues with lingering fatigue and loss of taste and smell. Got my first vaccine at Walgreens in Springfield. Very well organized and helpful pharmacist who administered the shot. Since she knew I had previously had COVID she said to expect some reaction with the first vaccine because my body will be cranking out antibodies as a defense. She was right….just like a little COVID episode that lasted about 24 hours. She said the second one should be a breeze.
Wife and I both have received our 2nd shots. Mine in Edwardsville and hers in Carbondale. We decided right away to drive wherever we could get the shot. We are old enough to qualify and young enough to figure out how the systems work and arrange appointments.
It feels like winning the lottery when you get those appointments set. I shake my head when I hear people say they’re not going to get the shot.
For the first time in months I feel like I will survive this. .
- 32nd Ward Roscoe Village - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:46 pm:
Chicago Hunger Games continues. I cannot get an appointment for my spouse who has a condition covered in the Illinois expansion of 1b. The Chicago covid website says to start with your primary care physician. Husband’s primary care physician on Friday said in response “Most of my patients are getting their shots in the suburbs.” Why are Chicago and Cook County so screwed up? /rhetorical question.
My mother who is 85 has gotten her first shot and gets her second one next week. My in laws have both gotten their first one and get their second on Friday. My wife is a teacher and gets her second this Friday. I just got my first yesterday (Pfizer) and get my second in three weeks. I was able to get it through one of our feeder school districts as a member of our school board.
- 32nd Ward Roscoe Village - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:51 pm:
My sister, 72, and my brother-in-law, 65 and a state university professor in West Virginia received both doses weeks ago. West Virginia is eating our lunch.
Uncles in 80s in Kansas are just receiving second dose.
My wife and I have just received our second doses of the Moderna vaccine. We deferred regular winter travel to Southern California to get vaccinated. There were very minor side affects with both doses. The procedure in Champaign County was appreciated and could not have been more user friendly. Our daughter in her 30s Scottsdale AZ volunteered at a vaccination site and has received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Her brother also in his 30s in Wisconsin is standing by at this point.
- View from the Cheap Seats - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:56 pm:
My mother got two shots. Second one was a little rough.
Not gonna lie. It’s a little infuriating that so many people wandering around with antibodies from actually having COVID are getting the shot before a whole host of folks who have no protection whatsoever
My parents got their first dose of Pfizer and are getting second dose this week. I got my first dose of Moderna last week. My parents didn’t even have sore arms. I did for two days. My siblings have all gotten their first dose. Everyone is very excited to get back to normal. Easter was the first holiday we canceled at the beginning of this awfulness. Now it is the first one we are resuming.
Both mine & my wife’s elderly relatives plus my wife & sister-in-law (both essential) have all received at least the 1st dose, both Moderna and Pfizer, and nobody has really reported any really bad side effects, even after the 2nd dose. I think the worst I’ve heard about is a bad headache. But I recommend that anybody who can should sign up with vsafe after getting the first dose (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/vsafe.html). It will be helpful to the CDC to get as much data about side effects as possible.
Mom just got hers last week in Springfield, dads is this week. She is 81 years old with pre existing medical. She is worried about round two with all the noise about folks getting ill after second dose vaccine.
My wife has had both rounds of Moderna. She had a headache, chills, and joint pain after the second dose. Her symptoms persisted for about 12 hours.
I have received my first of Moderna with no side effects. I was able to get in to the County north of us as they were accepting residents from our County because they said that they couldn’t move to the next phase until the whole region could.
I received my first dose today thanks to the expansion of 1B to include pre-existing conditions. Scheduling is still a royal pain, and the County Health Department here says they are not screening people for qualifying conditions. (Thank you to those of you reading this who were responsible!)
The arm is a little sore, but, hey, I have a vaccine.
Kudos to Walgreens for scheduling both appointments at the same time. That said, COPY DOWN YOUR CONFIRMATION NUMBER! I did not receive a confirmation email, and the name field had problems. Having that number might have saved my appointment. (I certainly didn’t have a state ID belonging to “Dirty Dirty.” Maybe I should?)
My lady friend and I received our first dose yesterday at the Orr Building on the State Fairgrounds. Really a well run process, the medical folks and the national guard members were polite, friendly and well organized. Moderna was the type and the only side effect was a slightly sore arm.
I’ve had both rounds of Phizer, wife had round 1 and next week gets round 2.
No side effects to speak of beyond a sore arm. My wife has some allergies and she was also fine (though they kept her for 30 mins to observe as opposed to my 15).
Close friend of mine is a doctor and recommended diligent hydration leading into and day after the shot. He’s smarter than I am so I listened and all was well.
No vaccines for us (although we could have). Until it’s available for the kids we’re not going anywhere because we don’t want to risk infecting them (we can still be carriers even if we’re vaccinated). Once it’s available for everyone in the household we’ll all get vaccinated together — until then, we’ll leave the slots open for people who need them more.
MIL and FIL will be getting second shot this Saturday. One SIL (physical therapist) received both and felt fine. Another SIL (works in a school) received both and was feeling awful for a day or two. My father received both (volunteers for county emergency response) with no issues. Mother finally received her first last week.
As for this household, I figure if we’re able to get it by May I’ll consider us lucky.
My wife (64) and I (66) received our second shot of Moderna on Feb. 18. Minimal side effects, including fatigue and some headaches for me. Lasted a couple of days. No problems after that. We are both outliers in Perry County, I fear. We mask. We distance. We avoid restaurants and gatherings. I fear our county will continue to be plagued by the deniers whose filters are purely political.
- Former Merit Comp - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 9:47 pm:
Hubby drove an hour to a HyVee pharmacy to get both his shots. No side effects with either. I just became eligible on the 25th under 1B+ and got my first shot today at our local Walgreens, who has a ton of available appointments. Our local health department is currently out of vaccine. Seems no rhyme or reason which providers are receiving vaccine.
- Anon1 - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:15 pm:
Inlaws have, still too young myself
- Nilwood - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:16 pm:
The oldest sibling has received his first shot. No problems or issues. The other six of us have not yet entered the process.
- Highland Il - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:16 pm:
My wife, a teacher, gets her second shot this week. I received my first shot last week, also through work as an essential worker.
- L.A. - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:16 pm:
My 77 year old mother just got her 2nd shot yesterday. Her arm is a little sore, but no other adverse reaction.
- Bruce( no not him) - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:18 pm:
Wife and I have both had 1st shot. Waiting impatiently for 2nd.
- @misterjayem - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:21 pm:
My parents and mother-in-law have all gotten their first shots.
I’ll be pleasantly surprised if I get mine before summer.
– MrJM
- Stix Hix - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:21 pm:
Got both at my school. Lady got #1 at the county health department, #2 next week. No problems–just like flu shots.
- Grandson of Man - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:22 pm:
I booked an appointment but it’s a little far away. Wanted to ensure to get an appointment ASAP, even if it means a long drive. Grandson done with this COVID ish and ready to get on with life again.
Trying to help others get the vaccine, but some can’t go very far away from where they live, and appointments are not so easy to get.
- bored now - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:23 pm:
my father-in-law (vietnam vet, vaccinated through the va) has had both shots now. the first shot had no effect on him. the second one made him sleep more for a few days. other than that, no side effects.
- Grimlock - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:23 pm:
Got both doses (Moderna). Arm was sore for a day or two but no other complications. About 20% to 30% of recipients of either Moderna or Pfizer report fever, soreness, swelling for a day or two after second shot but then fine.
- OneMan - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:24 pm:
My folks got it in AZ, at a drive-through operation, the first short was at 12:35 AM (they are doing it 24×7) in AZ. My dad commented that it was all ‘young people’ doing the shots and what a great job they did. My dad making that comment really made me smile.
My in-laws got it in Florida.
My wife got it on day 3 since she sees patients who are at high risk and was going into facilities with active outbreaks.
She also administered the vaccine at her hospital for staff, the first time she had given a shot in almost 20 years (before they had the safety guards on the needles), she did that for a couple of weeks before the chargebacks and payroll got too complicated. Since she is a higher-level practitioner she spent most of her time at the vaccination site looking for and addressing reactions. Also early on, everyone wanted a picture taken to show nervous family members that they were getting vaccinated.
Get my second shot (due to my hospital volunteer work) later this week.
- Dan Johnson - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:24 pm:
My sister-in-law health car worker and my dad. They feel like superheroes. I’m jealous. Can’t wait to get mine (likely around the All Star Break).
- FinanceCity - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:27 pm:
First shot last week (Moderna) on Thursday. Bad headache and some flu like symptoms on Friday but better by Saturday afternoon. Family member had second shot of Merderna last week and has 102 fever for about 12 hours and felt fine after that.
- FNULNU - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:28 pm:
Thanks to 1b category I got my first shot this morning, no issues so far. I went an hour early because I was on the right side of town and they took me with a smile. Second shot is scheduled. I got the appointment on the county website at 11:00 a.m. yesterday.
- don the legend - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:28 pm:
Brother and sister-in-law in N.C. easy peasy
Sister and brother-in-law in FLA easy peasy.
No side effects for either
- Stu - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:30 pm:
Got both Moderna shots already at the Tinley Park Convention Center. Was VERY tired for 1 day after the first shot, had body/joint aches after 2nd. Would do it again in a heartbeat. Well run operation at TPCC.
- the Edge - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:31 pm:
My wife and I have both had the first shot. She got the Pfizer and felt sick the next day. I had the Moderna and felt a little sluggish the next day. Our second shots are upcoming this weekend.
- Blanche - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:32 pm:
Still on the hunt in the Cook County Hunger Game. I am definitely in 1B, but reside in Northwest Suburbs where the vaccines seem to be non-existent. Maybe someday, hopefully …
- DuPage - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:36 pm:
On several waiting lists NW med, Amita, DuPage Medical Group, Walgreens, Meijer, CVS, County Health.
All of them are out of vaccine or are only doing second shots right now. When the next big shipments come in, I will probably get multiple invitations. My doctor has advised me to get any of the vaccines as soon as they become available, regardless of the manufacturer. Still in quarantine.
- Cool Papa Bell - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:36 pm:
Both my parents are older than 75. My dad has had both shots, and my mom awaits her second. They are in the Quad Cities and my dad (with an appointment) waited 8 hours in his car for his first shot. Two weeks later when my mom could get hers it was a 20 minute wait in the car. Very happy the process was streamlined.
I’ve seen the process out the National Guard site at the fairgrounds and it’s impressive. Can’t wait for the J and J shot to improve things even more.
Very, very excited about the progress on the vaccine front. IDPH hospitalization numbers show current usage trending lower than it was during the summer.
- Frumpy White Guy - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:36 pm:
I received the Moderna Vaccine shots and loved it. Very liberating to feel the fear of Covid lifted.
- We'll See - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:43 pm:
2nd round of Moderna completed 10 days ago - 1st shot resulted in a tender arm and 2nd dose resulted in a low grade temp and fatigue. I qualified for the vaccine as a substitute teacher and I’m very grateful.
- Joe Bidenopolous - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:46 pm:
Wife who works for a hospital system got her first in December and second in mid-January. The second made her sleep for three days (that’s an exaggeration, but not by much). The entire household is increasingly more jealous by the day. On the plus side - she has to do ALL the shopping now.
In-laws all have their first shot and seem to be doing fine. I’m 1C and when they open up that cohort, I imagine the rush will make the relative scarcity now look quaint. I’m confident though - I never get shut out of in-demand concert tickets and I know these websites from scheduling the in-laws now, so I *think* I have the skills to get an appointment.
- Just a Citizen - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:47 pm:
My husband and I (77 years old)have each had our first shot…Moderna; our second shot scheduled for the 10th of this month.
- thoughts matter - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:47 pm:
Parents have had both shots at their assisted living facility. Has not resulted in removal of any restriction yet though.
I got my first one Saturday at the state fairgrounds. Highly organized, in and out in 30 minutes. Sore arm. Bad headache in back of head- relieved by sinus meds. Appointment for 2nd shot made before I left the building.
- Rayne of terror - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:50 pm:
My parents got their second doses of Moderna Friday. Dad had an allergic reaction (hives) and needs to take bendryl every 6 hours. I get my second dose Wednesday (Pfizer) as an essential worker and am a little concerned about making it to court the next day but I didn’t get a choice in scheduling the second shot. I am extremely concerned about how little vaccine McLean County is getting compared to Champaign and Peoria counties.
- No relation - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:50 pm:
I had my second shot of Moderna last Wed at noon. I could not get warm Wed or Thurs and slept Thurs afternoon. Thurs night I had a temp of 104 degree. I woke up Friday morning refreshed and ready to go and felt great.
My wife tested positive five days after the first shot. She was able to get an infusion and now has to wait 90 days to start the process over.
- JoanP - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:51 pm:
I have had my first shot (Moderna) with no side effects other than the usual after-vaccination sore arm. I get the second on 3/12.
One of sibs got her second shot today, and the other is scheduled for her first tomorrow.
They are both in other states (California and Ohio), so we are now happily planning to get together in April.
- PublicServant - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:54 pm:
My wife, a special Education Aide is getting vaccinated with the Moderna Vaccine this coming Wednesday. She has been back in school since January 11th. So far, so good.
I’m a disabled USMC vet, and the VA has not contacted me yet, but being 4 months short of my 65th birthday, I’m kinda screwed vaccine-wise.
- Fairycat - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:55 pm:
Had no luck finding appointments in Kane County for elderly parents–so they drove 130 miles to get vaccinated at a Walgreens in Urbana in mid-February. Such a relief, but why are we asking our seniors to drive 2 1/2 hours to get vaccinated?
- PublicServant - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:55 pm:
My wife, a special Education Aide is getting vaccinated with the Moderna Vaccine this coming Wednesday. She has been back in school since January 11th. So far, so good.
I’m a disabled USMC vet, and the VA has not contacted me yet, but being 4 months short of my 65th birthday, I’m on the outs vaccine-wise.
- Montrose - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:56 pm:
My wife (underlying heath condition) and my son (essential worker) have both received their first shot. Parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles have all received one or two shots, largely because my wife has made vaccine navigation her second job.
She has successfully scheduled appointments for family in half a dozen states through a mix of a million waitlists, dozens of open tabs in her browser, and setting her alarm for midnight to be up when new appointments load.
It is wonderful she has helped so many get shots and atrocious that this is what it takes to get people in. Here’s hoping this landscape changes in the next few weeks.
- Diogenes in DuPage - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:56 pm:
Son #1 and his wife are educators and were vaccinated with their fellow staff members in conjunction with the county health department. Son #2 is a pharmacist and was vaccinated with other health care workers. He also is now giving vaccinations, and vaccinated his wife and mother (who is 65 with emphysema) with vaccines within hours of expiration time. I am wintering in Florida, and as a “tourist” cannot be vaccinated here. But I am very active, and am spending most waking hours outside. (Almost everyone here is wearing masks and acting safely/sanely.) Hopefully, the vaccine will be more plentiful upon my return to Illinois in April.
- Rachel - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:59 pm:
Second shot late this week. Moderna, administered at SCDPH drive through. First shot took 22 minutes and that included the 15 minute wait. They are very organized, efficient and kind. It’s a very happy place. All they need is more vaccine. No real side effects - just a slightly sore, itchy spot at the injection site, similar to my reaction to a flu shot.
- Cubs in '16 - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 2:59 pm:
My wife works for the school district and has received both doses. Pain at the injection site after first one and flu-like symptoms for 24 hours following second. I am now eligible and plan to schedule mine in the near future.
- illdoc - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:00 pm:
Got 2nd shot 2 weeks ago (Moderna) No issues after first one, joint pain after shot 2 in areas that have had past surgeries (shoulders, knees and wrist) lasted a couple days and was controlled by ibuprofen
- AlfondoGonz - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:04 pm:
My wife and I both got the first dose at McCormick center. Really good system they’ve organized there. Arm was sore for a couple days, no other side effects.
- khill - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:07 pm:
I’m disabled and severely ill. Chicago isn’t starting phase 1C for people with at-risk medical conditions until March 29, and they’re already saying that will probably be delayed. It’s extremely frustrating.
- Nieva - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:08 pm:
Myself, wife, mother, dad, daughter and sister-in-law have all have both doses. I have had covid and so has the wife according to the Kroger blood test.We went to the local hospital and they got theirs at the local school that has a wellness center.
- Sal - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:09 pm:
I am eagerly waiting my turn!!!
- Jaguar - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:10 pm:
My father (84 years old), as of Friday hadn’t yet been contacted by the hospital to make an appointment.
My wife was told by her doctor when she was in to see him last week that he expects to get access to the Moderna vaccine and that he would notify her when he does so.
- muon - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:10 pm:
I’m between 60 and 65 with no co-morbidities. I will be an election judge on April 6, but that doesn’t qualify as an essential person under 1B. I assume I’ll be getting one towards the end of the line.
- Original Rambler - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:14 pm:
Not yet though I could move up to 1B+ if occasional cigar smoking is considered smoking.
- hisgirlfriday - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:16 pm:
I second @Rayne of Terror’s concern about McLean County’s lack of doses in comparison to Peoria/Champaign counties.
Thankfully my 65+ loved ones have all now secured their first doses of the vaccine after them having had to scour websites for appointments for six weeks. A sibling and sibling’s spouse who are both essential workers have gotten both doses. No severe symptoms reported for anyone. No major symptoms for anybody.
- Shy Lurker - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:16 pm:
Husband has had both shots(Moderna) and I have had both shots (Pfizer) thru hospital system (both of us over 65). Had a fever and chills for a day after second shot. Catholica hospital , very well organized. They contacted us via patient portal. Amazed that we were lucky enough to get it with no hassle.
- WillRez - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:16 pm:
Son is an EMT and has had both doses (Moderna), with significant reaction after the second dose, and completely recovery after 72 hours. Wife, an essential worker, just received first dose. No reaction. I work in a public building and have been required to self-quarantine three separate times because of significant contact with co-workers who’ve tested positive. Will County’s rollout has been disappointing, to say the least, with some public offices jumping the line.
- illini - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:16 pm:
I got my first shot ( Pfizer ) in January and my second on February 9. I was fortunate ( if that is possible ) to have had enough mitigating factors to be included in that first group. And again, fortunately, the only reaction to either shot was a slightly sore arm/shoulder for a day or two.
- BTO2 - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:23 pm:
Dropped mom off for her 2nd shot at 915 this morning at Prarie Heart, Springfield and back on road at 940. She was thrilled how smooth their process was.
Went out and visited dad’s grave after, too bad vaccine wasn’t available in September.
- yinn - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:25 pm:
Hubby got second shot last week. Had chills and joint pain, spiked a temp, everything smelled/tasted like gasoline to him. It was exactly like his second COVID infection in November, except all symptoms disappeared after 48 hours.
- Crash - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:28 pm:
No, and I’m sort of disappointed at the categorization. I’m mid 50s with a pretty serious underlying heart condition.
Not to whine “me first”, but at the same time, people with serious underlying conditions seem to be treated the same as those without even though if we get it, we are substantially less likely to survive.
In the meantime, I’m sticking with the mask, social distancing as I can, and a lot of hand washing and use of hand sanitizer.
- Anonamoose - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:33 pm:
I’ve gotten the Pfizer shots as I’m a volunteer FF in my town. My wife will probably be one of the last to get vaccinated and she’s not in any of the essential worker or aged or at-risk groups.
Side effects included a sore arm (somewhere between flu shot-sore and tetanus shot-sore) and some fatigue for the first 24-48 hours. After that perfectly fine. Easy peasy.
- Nearly Normal - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:37 pm:
After trying to deal with the McLean County’s vaccine site for over a month, I took the advice of a friend and went to the IDPH website–https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/vaccination-location
I was told to go to this site on Thursday morning right after midnight. Seems the site is updated at that time.
I put in my zip code and got a list of pharmacies in the county that have vaccine available. There I was able to get an appointment from Krogers in Normal for both my first and second shots.
My appts had to be changed due to a glitch in the software but I got my first shot on Feb 27 with no side effects. I get my second one on March 30.
- Retired and Still in Illinois - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:38 pm:
Got my first a couple of weeks ago and get my second on Saturday along with my in laws, both in late 80’s. Wife gets her second on Wednesday. No issue with the first. Sort of expecting to feel a little sick after the second (Pfizer) based on others I’ve talked too.
- Election Worker - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:39 pm:
Got my first shot on Friday at Walgreens thanks to the expansion of 1b to high risk individuals. I feel a bit guilty since I’m still young, but both my doctor and the health department said I was eligible and my doctor encouraged me to get it because of my underlying health condition. I was given Pfizer and my only symptoms were a headache, some insomnia and a MAJOR achy arm. I felt like I got punched by a heavy weight boxer. Still light years better than Covid and I eagerly await my appointment for my second dose.
- Motambe - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:39 pm:
Vaccinated, first shot, on Friday. County health department running vaccines through the hospitals. Very smooth, 25 minutes in and out, including 15 minutes after shot to wait out reaction time. Moderna. Some aching muscles and headache on Sunday. Good today.
- Rudy’s teeth - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:50 pm:
Received my second shot on Friday, Feb. 26. Easily registered through NWMH My Chart platform. So far, all is good.
- Former Rep Dr. David Miller - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:56 pm:
Yes, I am a frontliner and had them both. First one i was fine, after the 2nd one, I felt a little chills that night and went to bed a little early. After that, I was fine. The arm was sore but no more than a flu shot….
- Gruntled University Employee - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:57 pm:
My wife, the Dental Hygienist, has had both doses. I get my 2nd dose tomorrow. Not sure when our 16 year old daughter will be able to get hers.
- ddp76 - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:57 pm:
Finally got mine. Not through the county, but from a local hospital where I was placed on a “leftovers” list for at the end of the day. Got two Moderna shots and got a little sick for about 36 hours each time. I also had COVID back in the fall. Feeling much better that the daily rate of vaccinated people is growing albeit slowly.
- Demoralized - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 3:58 pm:
Wife has had her first shot - Moderna. No side effects except a sore arm.
- Wensicia - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:08 pm:
I got my first shot ten days ago, Pfizer, and had a sore arm the next day. My next shot is scheduled for 3/12. As an educator, I’m grateful for the chance to receive the vaccinations before I return to the classroom at the end of the month, as I’m in a high risk category.
- RNUG - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:09 pm:
Just got vaccinated over the weekend with Moderna. Mrs RNUG will be in a couple of days; her Doctor wanted her to wait 4 weeks after her second shingles shot.
I made sure to move my arm off and on the rest of the day after my shot. The following day a bit of soreness at the injection site but no other side effects.
- Ron Burgundy - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:10 pm:
Mom yes. Wife partially. Myself not yet.
- tea_and_honey - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:13 pm:
I qualify in the expanded 1B group but I’ve yet to find anywhere actually taking the 1B+, everywhere I’ve checked is still restricting to only the original 1B group.
- Perrid - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:13 pm:
Both of my parents, late 60s early 70s, have gotten both shots. I think it’s been a few weeks since shot 2 now, so they should be good.
I know one of my uncles, who has MS, got the first shot in January, presumably the second as well by now though I haven’t heard.
- Big Mike - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:16 pm:
Also live in Northwest suburbs in Cook County and getting a vaccine is impossible at this time. Hopefully it will improve soon
- Amalia - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:19 pm:
family in Cali lined up at a stadium, one got the shot cause the aunt with her was over 75.
- Facts Matter - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:23 pm:
I’m scheduled for the second shot of the Pfizer vaccine a week from today. One of the few advantages of being “elderly” is that I’ve qualified for the vaccine. No issues with the first shot.
- JT11505 - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:26 pm:
Got shot number 1 (Moderna), got mildly sick the day after (body ache, slight fever).
Scheduled for second a week from Thursday.
- ArchPundit - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:31 pm:
Both parents and my mother-in-law are vaccinated as is my wife’s grandmother. It looks like April is for fat guys in Minnesota as that is the estimate for me (and being fat is part of that estimate).
- SSL - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:37 pm:
No one in the family has been vaccinated yet. Hoping the Johnson & Johnson approval starts to impact availability soon.
- Joe Schmoe - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:40 pm:
A prelude - had a bad case of COVID in the fall that put me out for a couple of weeks and continues with lingering fatigue and loss of taste and smell. Got my first vaccine at Walgreens in Springfield. Very well organized and helpful pharmacist who administered the shot. Since she knew I had previously had COVID she said to expect some reaction with the first vaccine because my body will be cranking out antibodies as a defense. She was right….just like a little COVID episode that lasted about 24 hours. She said the second one should be a breeze.
- Ed Wards Ville - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:41 pm:
Wife and I both have received our 2nd shots. Mine in Edwardsville and hers in Carbondale. We decided right away to drive wherever we could get the shot. We are old enough to qualify and young enough to figure out how the systems work and arrange appointments.
It feels like winning the lottery when you get those appointments set. I shake my head when I hear people say they’re not going to get the shot.
For the first time in months I feel like I will survive this. .
- 32nd Ward Roscoe Village - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:46 pm:
Chicago Hunger Games continues. I cannot get an appointment for my spouse who has a condition covered in the Illinois expansion of 1b. The Chicago covid website says to start with your primary care physician. Husband’s primary care physician on Friday said in response “Most of my patients are getting their shots in the suburbs.” Why are Chicago and Cook County so screwed up? /rhetorical question.
- Out of Illinois - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:51 pm:
My mother who is 85 has gotten her first shot and gets her second one next week. My in laws have both gotten their first one and get their second on Friday. My wife is a teacher and gets her second this Friday. I just got my first yesterday (Pfizer) and get my second in three weeks. I was able to get it through one of our feeder school districts as a member of our school board.
- 32nd Ward Roscoe Village - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:51 pm:
My sister, 72, and my brother-in-law, 65 and a state university professor in West Virginia received both doses weeks ago. West Virginia is eating our lunch.
Uncles in 80s in Kansas are just receiving second dose.
- Lincoln Lad - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:51 pm:
My wife has really tried to get an appointment, but so far, no luck. It feels like availability in DuPage is a big problem.
- Sam Gove - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:53 pm:
My wife and I have just received our second doses of the Moderna vaccine. We deferred regular winter travel to Southern California to get vaccinated. There were very minor side affects with both doses. The procedure in Champaign County was appreciated and could not have been more user friendly. Our daughter in her 30s Scottsdale AZ volunteered at a vaccination site and has received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine. Her brother also in his 30s in Wisconsin is standing by at this point.
- View from the Cheap Seats - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 4:56 pm:
My mother got two shots. Second one was a little rough.
- Joe Bidenopolous - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 5:08 pm:
Not gonna lie. It’s a little infuriating that so many people wandering around with antibodies from actually having COVID are getting the shot before a whole host of folks who have no protection whatsoever
- Ducky LaMoore - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 5:11 pm:
My parents got their first dose of Pfizer and are getting second dose this week. I got my first dose of Moderna last week. My parents didn’t even have sore arms. I did for two days. My siblings have all gotten their first dose. Everyone is very excited to get back to normal. Easter was the first holiday we canceled at the beginning of this awfulness. Now it is the first one we are resuming.
- MyTwoCents - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 5:14 pm:
Both mine & my wife’s elderly relatives plus my wife & sister-in-law (both essential) have all received at least the 1st dose, both Moderna and Pfizer, and nobody has really reported any really bad side effects, even after the 2nd dose. I think the worst I’ve heard about is a bad headache. But I recommend that anybody who can should sign up with vsafe after getting the first dose (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/vsafe.html). It will be helpful to the CDC to get as much data about side effects as possible.
- theCardinal - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 5:26 pm:
Mom just got hers last week in Springfield, dads is this week. She is 81 years old with pre existing medical. She is worried about round two with all the noise about folks getting ill after second dose vaccine.
- Chris Waller - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 5:56 pm:
My wife has had both rounds of Moderna. She had a headache, chills, and joint pain after the second dose. Her symptoms persisted for about 12 hours.
I have received my first of Moderna with no side effects. I was able to get in to the County north of us as they were accepting residents from our County because they said that they couldn’t move to the next phase until the whole region could.
- Dirty Red - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 6:57 pm:
I received my first dose today thanks to the expansion of 1B to include pre-existing conditions. Scheduling is still a royal pain, and the County Health Department here says they are not screening people for qualifying conditions. (Thank you to those of you reading this who were responsible!)
The arm is a little sore, but, hey, I have a vaccine.
Kudos to Walgreens for scheduling both appointments at the same time. That said, COPY DOWN YOUR CONFIRMATION NUMBER! I did not receive a confirmation email, and the name field had problems. Having that number might have saved my appointment. (I certainly didn’t have a state ID belonging to “Dirty Dirty.” Maybe I should?)
Wear two masks. Bring your own pen.
- nadia - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 7:20 pm:
My lady friend and I received our first dose yesterday at the Orr Building on the State Fairgrounds. Really a well run process, the medical folks and the national guard members were polite, friendly and well organized. Moderna was the type and the only side effect was a slightly sore arm.
- Cheap Seats - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 7:21 pm:
I’ve had both rounds of Phizer, wife had round 1 and next week gets round 2.
No side effects to speak of beyond a sore arm. My wife has some allergies and she was also fine (though they kept her for 30 mins to observe as opposed to my 15).
Close friend of mine is a doctor and recommended diligent hydration leading into and day after the shot. He’s smarter than I am so I listened and all was well.
- Flapdoodle - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 8:41 pm:
Late to the party as usual, but . . .
Wife had both Moderna doses, second one knocked her flat for 3/4 day (essential worker status)
I had second Modern dose Sunday mid-day, felt a bit sore at injection point but nothing else (1b)
- Stuff Happens - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 9:00 pm:
No vaccines for us (although we could have). Until it’s available for the kids we’re not going anywhere because we don’t want to risk infecting them (we can still be carriers even if we’re vaccinated). Once it’s available for everyone in the household we’ll all get vaccinated together — until then, we’ll leave the slots open for people who need them more.
- From DaZoo - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 9:03 pm:
MIL and FIL will be getting second shot this Saturday. One SIL (physical therapist) received both and felt fine. Another SIL (works in a school) received both and was feeling awful for a day or two. My father received both (volunteers for county emergency response) with no issues. Mother finally received her first last week.
As for this household, I figure if we’re able to get it by May I’ll consider us lucky.
- DQCardsFan - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 9:03 pm:
My wife (64) and I (66) received our second shot of Moderna on Feb. 18. Minimal side effects, including fatigue and some headaches for me. Lasted a couple of days. No problems after that. We are both outliers in Perry County, I fear. We mask. We distance. We avoid restaurants and gatherings. I fear our county will continue to be plagued by the deniers whose filters are purely political.
- Former Merit Comp - Monday, Mar 1, 21 @ 9:47 pm:
Hubby drove an hour to a HyVee pharmacy to get both his shots. No side effects with either. I just became eligible on the 25th under 1B+ and got my first shot today at our local Walgreens, who has a ton of available appointments. Our local health department is currently out of vaccine. Seems no rhyme or reason which providers are receiving vaccine.