What Are Severe Side Effects Of The Pneumococcal Vaccine
Some people have severe pain in the shoulder and have problems moving the arm where the shot was given. This is called Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration and it is caused by the vaccine needle accidentally hitting ligaments, tendons, or bursa.
Vaccines can cause a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The risk is estimated at about 1 in a million doses of the pneumococcal vaccine. Symptoms may include swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness or weakness.
Apnea has been reported in some premature infants who received intramuscular vaccines.
What To Do If Your Child Is Unwell After Pneumococcal Vaccination
Most common side effects in babies and young children, such as swelling or redness at the injection site, usually go away within a couple of days and you do not need to do anything about them.
If your child develops a fever, keep them cool. Make sure they do not wear too many layers of clothes or blankets, and give them cool drinks.
You can also give them a dose of infant paracetamol or ibuprofen liquid according to the instructions on the bottle.
Read an NHS leaflet about the common side effects of vaccination that may occur in babies and children under the age of 5, and how to treat them.
Allergic Reactions To The Pneumococcal Vaccine
Very occasionally, a child or adult may have a serious allergic reaction after either type of pneumococcal vaccination.
Known as an anaphylactic reaction, this can cause life-threatening breathing difficulties.
Anaphylaxis is a rare, serious side effect that can happen within minutes of the injection. It’s very alarming at the time, but it can be treated with adrenaline.
The doctor or nurse giving the vaccine will have been trained to know how to treat anaphylactic reactions.
Provided they receive treatment promptly, children and adults make a complete recovery.
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According to data from a Phase 3 trial of the Moderna vaccine, reported in the journal’s letter, delayed injection-site reactions – defined in the trial as those with an onset on or after day eight – were reported in 244 of the 30,420 participants following the first dose and in 68 participants after the second dose. The reactions typically resolved after four to five days and those who experienced them following the first shot were recommended to still receive their second dose.
Its not super common, but its not uncommon. Its a delayed hypersensitivity, similar to what you may see if you get poison ivy, Roy said. You maybe came into contact with the poison ivy in your yard, but some people wont get a rash until a few days later.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has acknowledged reports “that some people have experienced a red, itchy, swollen, or painful rash where they got the shot,” which it identified as “COVID arm.”
According to the CDC, the rashes can start within a few days to more than a week after the first shot and “are sometimes quite large.”
“If you experience ‘COVID arm’ after getting the first shot, you should still get the second shot at the recommended interval if the vaccine you got needs a second shot,” the CDC noted. “Tell your vaccination provider that you experienced a rash or ‘COVID arm’ after the first shot. Your vaccination provider may recommend that you get the second shot in the opposite arm.”
So what can you do if you get it?
Whats In The Pneumonia Vaccine
The first thing to know is that there are two types of pneumonia vaccine:
- Prevenar 13 pneumococcal conjugate vaccine which is given to babies and young children as part of their routine NHS vaccinations. It can also be given to adults who arent in a high-risk group. This type prevents against 13 strains of bacteria that can cause pneumonia.
- Pneumovax 23 pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine which is given to people over 65 and anyone with a health condition that makes them high-risk for pneumonia and its complications. This type prevents against 23 strains of bacteria that can cause pneumonia.
Both of these vaccines work in the same way: by encouraging your body to produce antibodies which can fight off pneumococcal bacteria the bacteria that cause pneumonia. Once youve had the vaccine, your body will be better able to fight off infection.
This year to help support the NHS we are just offering the Prevenar 13 vaccination in our stores. This is so the NHS has enough of the Pneumovax 23 to vaccinate those in our communities who are most at risk of catching pneumonia. If you fall into the NHS high-risk category, please contact your GP for advice and to have Pneumovax 23.
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What Are Some Other Side Effects Of This Drug
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
- Pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given.
- Feeling tired or weak.
- Muscle pain.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Flu Shot Side Effects : What’s Normal And What’s Cause For Concern
All vaccines have the potential to cause side effects, and that includes your yearly flu shot. But most are totally normal.
The coronavirus is still a very real concern this fall, but so is the influenza virus, aka the flu. The good news is we have very safe and effective tools for fighting and preventing both potentially deadly viruses, thanks to the COVID-19 vaccines and the flu vaccine.
According to the CDC, flu shots are safe and one of the best ways to keep from getting and spreading the flu to others. And people who get vaccinated and get sick anyway often experience less severe symptoms. If you’re thinking of getting vaccinated for both COVID-19 and the flu, the CDC says it is safe to get both vaccines together .
The simple fact is, flu vaccines can save lives. There are plenty of myths out there about the flu vaccine, such as the idea that it can give you the flu. While that’s not true, you can experience some side effects from the flu shot. The side effects are usually mild and nothing to worry about, but it’s important to know about them so you’re not worried when you get your vaccine.
Below, Dr. Carmen Teague, specialty medical director at Atrium Health‘s Mecklenburg Medical Group shares what you need to know about common flu shot side effects that are normal, and which side effects may be a sign of something more serious.
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Why Would A Pneumonia Vaccination Cause Arm Edema And Fever
Dr. insisted I have 3rd pneumonia vaccine. The 2nd vaccination caused cellulitis.Now my arm is swollen & feverish.Could it be an allergic reaction?
Hello Anon
Thank you for writing.
Cellulitis refers to an infection of the skin. It may spread to tissue just beneath the skin’s surface. The infection may occur anywhere on the body. It is most common on the face or lower legs.
Cellulitis is often caused by a bacterial infection. It may come from bacteria that normally lives on the skin or bacteria from other sources. The bacterial infection may be caused by:
A minor injury to the skin, such as a cut, scratch, blister, puncture, or bite, that becomes infected and spreads into the surrounding skinChickenpox blisters that open up and become infected with bacteriaInjuries that occur in natural bodies of water that become infected with germs found in the waterA cut or abrasion that becomes infected by food bacteria while handling fish, poultry, eggs, or meatBacteria that enter the body through surgical wounds or a catheter in a veinInfection in a person with diabetes or a weakened immune systemBacteria spreading from an upper respiratory or ear infectionImpaired circulation MRSA infection drug resistant infection that can be spread through shared towel or sport equipment
Factors that increase your risk for cellulitis include:
Insect, animal, or human bitesDiabetesWeakened immune system, such as AIDS or being on chemotherapyAlcoholism
What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Pneumovax 23 23
You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine.
Before receiving this vaccine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia, or easy bruising.
The timing and number of PPSV doses you receive will depend on whether you have any of these other conditions:
- cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma
- HIV or AIDS
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When To See A Doctor
A person who is over 65 years of age should talk to their doctor about which pneumonia vaccine may be best for them. The doctor can help determine whether they should get the vaccination, which vaccination to get, and when to get it.
Parents and caregivers of young children should talk to a pediatrician about the schedule for the pneumonia vaccination. The pediatrician can also address any questions or concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccination.
A person does not need to see a doctor for mild reactions to the vaccine, such as tenderness at the injection site, fever, or fatigue.
However, if a person experiences any life threatening side effects, they should seek emergency help immediately.
Signs and symptoms of allergic reactions in children may include:
- respiratory distress, such as wheezing
Pain After A Shot: Normal Site Reactions To Vaccines
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , in most cases vaccine side effects are minor and go away within a few days. Side effects vary according to vaccine type, such as flu, shingles, or pneumonia. Generally mild side effects of vaccines may include:
- Pain, redness, tenderness, or swelling at injection site
- Fatigue
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How To Avoid A Sore Arm After A Flu Shot
Its flu season, which means many of us are heading to our doctor or local clinic for a flu shot . As we continue to battle COVID-19, flu shots are more important than ever before.
No one wants to be hit with both viruses. The good news is that with one flu shot each fall, you can significantly lower your chances by 40% to 60% of contracting the flu .
But are you one of the few who walks away from your shot feeling like youve been punched in the arm? Not everyone gets a sore arm, but it is common, and the reason actually may surprise you.
Some individuals may develop swelling, a mild, low-grade fever and some moderate pain localized to where they received the shot, said Devin Minior, MD, chief medical officer for Banner Urgent Care. This is a natural response, and it means that your body’s immune system is working to build up a defense against the flu virus.
Who Should Get Pneumococcal Vaccines
CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all children younger than 2 years old and all adults 65 years or older. In certain situations, older children and other adults should also get pneumococcal vaccines. Below is more information about who should and should not get each type of pneumococcal vaccine.
Talk to your or your childs doctor about what is best for your specific situation.
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What Other Side Effects Have Been Reported
The following side effects were reported in people who received Pneumovax23, but it is unknown if they were caused by the vaccine:
- Anaphylactoid reactions
- Fever over 102ºF
- Hemolytic anemia in patients who have had other hematologic disorders
- Increased serum C-reactive protein
- Peripheral edema in the injected limb
- Radiculoneuropathy
Tags: pneumococcal
What You Need To Know:
The pneumococcal vaccine is an injection given to protect you from pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal disease develops from an infection caused by pneumococcal bacteria. The infection may cause pneumonia or an ear infection. Pneumococcal disease is spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. The vaccine comes in 2 forms, called pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine .
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Follow Up With Your Doctor As Directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
How Can I Alleviate My Arm Pain
Swelling, redness and soreness are common after the flu shot and can last 24-48 hours. “If you always experience soreness or swelling after a flu vaccination, take an ibuprofen about 2 hours prior to vaccination,” suggests Dr. Mora. “You can also try icing the injection site to reduce redness and swelling and taking another dose of ibuprofen to ease any soreness or swelling.”
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How Is This Vaccine Given
This vaccine is given as an injection into a muscle or under the skin.
PPSV is usually given as 1 shot. You may need another shot if you are at high risk of infection with pneumococcal bacteria.
Keep taking any antibiotic your doctor has prescribed to help protect you against pneumococcal disease.
- Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.
- Accepted at over 65,000 pharmacies.
This Vaccine Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives difficult breathing swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
You should not receive a booster vaccine if you had a life threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.
Keep track of all side effects you have. If you need a booster dose, you will need to tell the vaccination provider if the previous shot caused any side effects.
Becoming infected with pneumococcal disease is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is low.
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wheezing, trouble breathing
Common side effects may include:
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pain, warmth, swelling, redness, or a hard lump where a shot was given
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muscle pain
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headache or
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feeling weak or tired.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.
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Before Taking This Medicine
You should not receive this vaccine if you ever had a severe allergic reaction to a pneumococcal vaccine.
Tell the vaccination provider if you or the child has:
-
heart problems
-
a weak immune system or
-
if you are receiving radiation or chemotherapy.
You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.
Tell the vaccination provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How To Take Pneumovax 23 23
Use Pneumovax 23 , 23-Valent) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
PPSV is given as an injection under the skin or into a muscle of your arm or thigh. You will receive this injection in a doctor’s office or other clinic setting.
PPSV is usually given as a routine vaccination in adults who are 65 years and older.
PPSV may also be given to people between the ages 2 and 64 years old who have:
- heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
- a cerebrospinal fluid leak, or a cochlear implant
- alcoholism or liver disease
- sickle cell disease or a disorder of the spleen
- a weak immune system caused by HIV, AIDS, cancer, kidney failure, organ transplantation, or a damaged spleen or
- a weak immune system caused by taking steroids or receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
PPSV may also be given to people between the ages 19 and 64 years old who smoke or have asthma.
PPSV should be given at least 2 weeks before the start of any treatment that can weaken your immune system. PPSV is also given at least 2 weeks before you undergo a splenectomy .
The timing of this vaccination is very important for it to be effective. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
If your doctor has prescribed an antibiotic to help prevent infection with pneumococcal bacteria, do not stop using the antibiotic after you receive the PPSV. Take the antibiotic for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor.
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Who Should Not Get The Vaccine
People should not get the vaccine if they have had a life threatening allergic reaction to a previous dose.
Additionally, a person should not undergo vaccination if they have had an allergic reaction to medication containing diphtheria toxoid or an earlier form of the pneumonia vaccination .
Lastly, people who are sick or have allergic reactions to any of the ingredients of the vaccine should talk to a doctor before getting the shot.
A pneumonia shot will not reduce pneumonia. However, it helps prevent invasive pneumococcal diseases, such as meningitis, endocarditis, empyema, and bacteremia, which is when bacteria enter the bloodstream.
Noninvasive pneumococcal disease includes sinusitis.
There are two types of pneumonia shots available. Which type a person gets depends on their age, whether or not they smoke, and the presence of any underlying medical conditions.
The two types are:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine : Healthcare providers recommend this vaccine for young children, people with certain underlying conditions, and some people over the age of 65 years.
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine : Healthcare providers recommend this vaccine for anyone over 65 years of age, people with certain underlying conditions, and people who smoke.
According to the
- roughly 8 in 10 babies from invasive pneumococcal disease
- 45 in 100 adults 65 years or older against pneumococcal pneumonia
- 75 in 100 adults 65 years or older against invasive pneumococcal disease