The pneumonia vaccine protects older adults from pneumococcal disease, a bacterial infection that can lead to serious illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Seniors face a higher risk of severe illness and death from these infections, making vaccination a valuable health tool. While the vaccine provides significant protection, understanding potential side effects can help individuals feel more prepared. Most reactions are mild and indicate that the body is building immunity.
Typical Reactions to Expect
After receiving the pneumonia vaccine, most seniors experience mild and temporary reactions. These common side effects typically manifest at the injection site, involving soreness, redness, or swelling. These are normal signs of immune activity.
Beyond the injection site, some individuals may also experience systemic reactions. These can include a mild fever, headache, muscle aches, or a general feeling of tiredness. Less commonly, a temporary loss of appetite or chills can occur. These reactions usually begin within a few hours of vaccination and generally resolve within one to three days.
Less Common or More Severe Reactions
While most reactions are mild, some rare but more significant side effects can occur. Severe allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, are among the most serious but occur in approximately 1 in 1 million doses. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can appear shortly after vaccination and include difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, swelling of the face or throat, a rapid heartbeat, and dizziness.
Other less common reactions might include persistent or severe pain and swelling at the injection site that extends beyond a few days. Fainting can also occur after any medical procedure, including vaccination, sometimes accompanied by dizziness, vision changes, or ringing in the ears.
Managing Post-Vaccination Symptoms
Several strategies can help alleviate discomfort from common and mild side effects. Applying a cool compress or an ice pack to the injection site for 10 to 20 minutes can reduce soreness, redness, and swelling. Moving the arm can also help decrease localized pain.
Systemic symptoms like fever, headache, or muscle aches can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil or Motrin) are commonly used for this purpose. Staying well-hydrated and getting adequate rest are also beneficial for recovery.
When Medical Advice is Needed
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days. Any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives spreading over the body, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness, require immediate emergency care. Calling emergency services like 911 is advised in such situations.
A healthcare professional should also be consulted if a high fever develops, if there is severe or escalating pain at the injection site, or if any other unusual or concerning symptoms appear. Contact your doctor with any prolonged or concerning reactions.