NHS ‘call 999’ warning on Covid-19 vaccine side effects

Those who get the  Covid-19 jab this winter may encounter some side effects, including severe ones that might necessitate a trip to A&E. Vaccinations are crucial in bolstering the body’s defences against viruses and are particularly recommended during the colder months.

This is due to the fact that viruses like Covid-19 mutate over time, causing the immune system’s protection to diminish. While not everyone is obliged to get vaccinated, it is generally advised for those at an increased risk of severe illness from a coronavirus infection.

The NHS typically recommends the Covid-19 vaccine for individuals aged 75 or above, residents of care homes for the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems due to health conditions or treatments. Despite potential side effects and risks, the vaccine is widely considered safe.

Side effects of Covid-19 vaccine

Not everyone who receives a COVID-19 vaccine will suffer any side effects. However, NHS guidance has highlighted that there are some common side effects, including:

• Feeling achy
• A headache
• Feeling tired
• A sore arm from the injection
• Mild flu-like symptoms

Generally, these side effects are mild and should subside within a week. The NHS suggests taking paracetamol to alleviate these symptoms while recovering.

However, a small number of individuals may experience serious side effects. For instance, some people might have a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine.

In such instances, the person administering the injection should be equipped to handle allergic reactions and provide immediate treatment. The NHS has also highlighted ‘rare’ instances of heart inflammation (myocarditis) resulting from the vaccine.

Symptoms of myocarditis can include:

• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Swelling in feet, legs, and ankles
• Flu-like symptoms
• Shortness of breath
• Light-headedness or dizziness

While symptoms from myocarditis can be discomforting, the NHS notes that most people who had it recovered following rest and simple treatments. In come cases, you may experience more serious symptoms, either immediately or a few days after being vaccinated, in which case it is advised to call 999 or go to A&E.

These serious symptoms can include:

• Severe difficulty breathing
• Heart palpitations, fast beating, or fluttering
• Chest pain or a tight feeling in the chest

Further details on the Covid-19 vaccine can be found here.