Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine for Seniors

Understanding the Side Effects from the COVID-19 Vaccine

With both variations of the vaccine beginning to be administered around the country, it is important for senior citizens to know the risks and benefits of the vaccination. Like many vaccines, the Covid-19 vaccination carries with it some risk of side effects upon taking it. Rest assured, this does not mean the vaccination is unsafe, but it does carry risks recipients should be aware of in order to make an informed decision.

What are the Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccination?

The Covid-19 vaccine has been tested and approved by all the necessary federal health departments needed to allow for its dispersal. Despite this, there is much misinformation correlating its side effects with it being generally unsafe to take. This is false, as most side effects associated with the vaccination are mild and completely normal to experience.

Minor Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination

When the vaccine is administered the body immediately begins to combat it and develop antibodies. This is what causes these minor side effects, so in reality, they show that the body is actively learning how to defend itself from the Coronavirus. However, there have been serious reactions to the Covid-19 vaccine. These have been due to allergic reactions to components that make up the vaccine and are isolated cases. Despite this, it is still important to be aware of this and consult with whoever is administering the vaccine to you about any allergies you have. 

• Soreness, redness, and irritation at the injection site are all completely normal side effects that commonly occur with any vaccine. These should only cause minor annoyance and fade within a few days. 

• Fevers, aches, joint pain. fatigue, headaches, and chills are all also common side effects associated with the vaccine. This may seem like a concerning thing, but in reality, these symptoms indicate the vaccine is working.

Pfizer versus Moderna Vaccines

Another important component to understanding the vaccine is that there are multiple versions being distributed. Currently in the United States, the two vaccines that are relevant are the Pfizer and Moderna versions. Fortunately, these two vaccines are both mRNA based and share similarities. For side effects, the main differences are that the Pfizer version tends to be milder for elderly patients but has had more allergic reactions so far. Additionally, Moderna’s vaccine has had a very limited number of incidents involving temporary facial paralysis after administration. It is unknown whether this is from the vaccine’s core components or the delivery method, but the paralysis has never been permanent and is exceedingly rare. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccination options, contact a medical provider from Housecall Specialists today!