21 Nov Are Redness And Swelling Common Flu Shot Symptoms?
Yes, redness and swelling are common flu shot symptoms. These minor side effects typically occur around the injection site and are normal reactions to the vaccine.
A flu shot this year is the best and most effective way to prevent an influenza infection. An estimated 38 million contracted influenza during the 2019-2020 season. Every year, the various forms of the virus are responsible for thousands of deaths. Every year, a new vaccine is developed to combat the newest influenza strain, and every year, thousands of people notice redness and swelling after their flu shot – side effects which are perfectly normal and not a cause for concern.
What other flu shot side effects are there?
There are some minor side effects associated with a flu shot, and all age demographics are susceptible to them, including seniors and children. As mentioned, side effects are generally limited to redness and swelling around the site of the injection and can be attributed to the injection itself.
Read Next: What Are The Most Common Flu Shot Side Effects?
Other side effects include:
- Low grade fever
- Body aches
- Soreness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
These side effects are associated with the body’s immune system and its reaction to the dead, inactive virus which comprises the vaccine. This is a normal response, and is not a sign of flu infection or more serious side effects. The flu vaccine cannot cause an infection of influenza.
Read Next: Can You Get The Flu From A Flu Shot?
Are there different side effects for different types of flu shots?
There are several different types of flu vaccines available, including egg-based, cell-based, and recombinant vaccines. They are distinguished according to how the virus— that which is responsible for the vaccine’s antibody production— is manufactured and treated before it is vaccine-ready.
Furthermore, there are several different methods through which the vaccine is administered, via hypodermic needle, patch, or otherwise. The CDC does not express a preference among licensed vaccines.
Regardless of which type of vaccine you get, all may potentially cause the side effects listed above. Any effects you may experience will generally go away within a day or two, after which you will be protected against the current season’s influenza strain for 4 – 6 months.
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In-Home Flu Shots With Concierge MD
Although we can’t prevent redness and swelling from the flu shot, Concierge MD can help you protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu with in-home appointments. One of our registered nurses brings your appointment to your home so you can avoid needless exposure to the flu or Covid-19 at a clinic or pharmacy.
