What are the side effects of the H1N1 vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expects the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine to have a safety and side effects profile similar to the regular “seasonal” influenza vaccine, which has a very good record for safety. Vaccine trials on healthy people in the US and the UK have gone well without serious adverse effects. However, the 2009 H1N1 vaccine is new and information regarding potential side effects will continue to be gathered. The guidance we have received suggests that the side-effects for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine are expected to be similar to the annual “seasonal” influenza vaccine. We have several types of this vaccine, and the potential side effects can be different depending upon whether you receive the “injection” or nasal spray formulation (LAIV). The “flu shot” contains inactivated (killed) virus, so you cannot get the flu from the vaccination. Side effects are minor and may include: muscle soreness or redness at the site of injection, low grade fever and muscle a
