Side Effects of Flu Vaccines

The flu vaccine may mimic symptoms of the flu. Check with your health care provider for any side effects from vaccination. Some side effects encountered are:

Allergy reaction with rash, shortness of breath/asthma, swelling

Fever, chills. malaise

Sore arm with redness, swelling, bruising at injection site

Muscle aches and headache

Nausea, vomiting

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis

There have been no reports of the more serious side effects in the small studies conducted. Which poses the greatest risk - the flu or the vaccine? It is up to you and your health care provider. Be informed so you can make the best decision for you.

Best health!

by J. L. Richardson, MD family physician, patient advocate, and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, the book that tells you how to be your best advocate from medical records to medical exams to medical tests and more.

http://www.mypatienthandbook.com/
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