Swine Flu Vaccine Side Effects

There are two forms of the swine flu vaccine being that are used in the United States, an inactive form of the virus (administered by shot) and a weakened strain of the virus (administered through a nasal spray). Both have a few side effects and contraindications.

Minor Side Effects

• According to the CDC, side effects are generally mild and may include "soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given, fainting (mainly adolescents), headache, muscle aches, fever and nausea."

Severe Side Effects

• Severe side effects are rare, and may cause severe allergic reactions, with difficulty breathing or wheezing, swelling in the face, weakness, rapid heart rate or even dizziness. These would happen within minutes of the vaccine being administered.

Contraindications

• Dr. Calman Prussin, an asthma specialist at the National Institutes of Health warns that asthma patients should not receive the nasal spray version of the vaccine, as it may worsen asthma symptoms. Patients with allergies to chicken eggs should not receive the vaccine if they tend to have severe allergic reactions.

FDA Approved

• Although flu vaccines in general are produced rather quickly, the FDA ensures the methods used to produce these vaccines "have a long and successful track record of safety and effectiveness."

Warning

• Always consult a doctor or health care professional before receiving this or any other vaccines to discuss the possible risks and benefits.