Side Effects of Moderna Vaccine Duration and Common Reactions
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, one of the most common vaccines protecting against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been administered over 243 million times since the start of the pandemic. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the common and rare side effects associated with the vaccine.
For most adults, the common side effects of the Moderna vaccine include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain (myalgia), joint pain (arthralgia), chills, swelling of lymph nodes (armpit or groin), and nausea/vomiting [1]. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and resolve within a few days, often within 1 to 3 days after vaccination [1][5].
While these side effects are common, it is essential to be aware of rare but more serious side effects such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining). These cases have been reported, particularly in younger males aged 12 to 29 years. However, they are uncommon and often respond well to rest and medication [2][5].
It is important to note that some follow-up studies indicate that symptoms can persist longer in a small percentage of cases, with myocarditis symptoms sometimes lasting weeks to months, though this is not common in adults generally [2][5].
In case of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening, it is crucial to check if the person is carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it, dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department, assist the person in moving from a sitting position to lying down, and stay with them until the emergency services arrive. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, swelling of the face or mouth, wheezing, fast, shallow breathing, a fast heart rate, clammy skin, anxiety or confusion, dizziness, vomiting, blue or white lips, fainting or loss of consciousness [6].
In summary, the common side effects of the Moderna vaccine in adults typically include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle/joint pain, chills, swelling of lymph nodes, and nausea. These side effects mostly resolve within a few days (1-3 days). Rare serious effects such as myocarditis/pericarditis have been reported, particularly in younger males, but they are usually mild and transient, occasionally lasting longer in some cases.
For those who experience discoloration or swelling that continues to worsen at the injection site, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the tongue or throat, they should seek medical attention as these could be signs of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
References:
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). What to Expect After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect/after.html
[2] Food and Drug Administration. (2021). FDA Authorizes Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-moderna-covid-19-vaccine-use-adolescents-12-through-17-years-old
[5] World Health Organization. (2021). WHO Provisional Summary of the Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines/safety-of-covid-19-vaccines
[6] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Anaphylaxis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anaphylaxis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369199
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- Symptoms of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that may be life-threatening, can include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, wheezing, fast heart rate, anxiety, dizziness, and fainting or loss of consciousness – individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
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