The influenza vaccine is safe. It is much safer to get the vaccine than influenza. Many people who receive the flu shot have no side effects. For those that do, side effects are usually mild and last a few days.
Common local vaccine side effects may include:
- redness
- swelling
- soreness
More general symptoms can include:
- chills
- fatigue
- joint pain
- headache
- mild fever
- muscle aches
Children may also be more fussy than usual after vaccination. Talk to a health care provider about how to help manage common side effects.
When should I seek medical attention?
There is a small chance of a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine called anaphylaxis. It usually happens shortly after a person receives the vaccine and is treatable.
Your health care provider will ask you to stay at the clinic for at least 15 minutes after vaccination. This is so they can watch for abnormal or very rare reactions and treat them promptly. Vaccination sites should have a supply of epinephrine to use in case you have an allergic reaction.
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- itchy rash
- swelling of the:
- increased heart rate
- loss of consciousness
- sudden low blood pressure
- abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- sneezing, coughing and difficulty breathing
If you experience any of these symptoms at the vaccination site, report it to your health care provider.
Call emergency services right away if you have left the vaccination site and develop any serious symptoms that could be an allergic reaction.