Is it common to experience severe side effects from COVID-19 vaccines?
By Lisa Freedland
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NO
Data indicate that severe side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are very rare. Most people experience mild or no side effects.
According to the Centers for Disease Control:
- Approximately five cases of anaphylaxis have occurred per one million doses administered.
- Approximately four cases of thrombosis (blood clots) with thrombocytopenia syndrome have occurred per one million doses administered.
- An average of about 77 cases of myocarditis (heart inflammation) have occurred per one million doses administered in individuals aged 12-24.
JAMA researchers found that between 0.2% and 0.3% of vaccine recipients experience allergic reactions.
Science magazine reported that in rare cases, the vaccines may cause "long covid-like symptoms." How frequently these side effects occur is unclear given that such cases are difficult to diagnose and are not being publicly tracked.
Clinical trial results suggest COVID-19 vaccines are safe for people with HIV.
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
Centers for Disease Control Selected Adverse Events Reported after COVID-19 Vaccination
Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 and HIV
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