Covaxin, also known as BBV152, is a COVID-19 vaccine developed using an inactivated virus. This method uses a killed version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which cannot cause illness but is sufficient to trigger an immune response. Like all vaccines, Covaxin can lead to side effects. These reactions indicate the recipient’s immune system is learning to fight the virus, and the majority of these effects are mild and resolve on their own.
Common and Localized Reactions
Following vaccination with Covaxin, it is common to experience reactions at the injection site. The most frequently reported local effect is pain where the shot was given. This can be accompanied by tenderness, swelling, redness, and itching in the same area. These localized reactions are a typical response of the body’s tissues to the injection.
General systemic reactions are also common, signaling the immune system’s broader activation. Headache, fatigue, fever, and myalgia (muscle aches) are among the most common of these effects. These symptoms appear within the first day or two after vaccination and last for only a few days before resolving without intervention.
The incidence of these common reactions may differ between the first and second doses. Some research indicates that adverse events were more frequently reported after the first dose compared to the second. For example, one study noted that 38.1% of participants reported an adverse event after the first dose, versus 26.4% after the second. Most of these reported effects were mild and resolved within 24 hours.
Less Common Systemic Side Effects
Beyond the most frequent reactions, a range of other systemic side effects are reported with less regularity. These events are still considered part of the expected vaccine response for a smaller subset of individuals. Data from clinical trials and post-market surveillance have identified several such symptoms.
Among these less common side effects are gastrointestinal issues. Nausea and vomiting have been noted in some clinical trial participants. Abdominal pain and diarrhea have also been documented, though they occur infrequently. These symptoms are mild and temporary.
Other less common effects include dizziness, decreased appetite, and rash. A general feeling of malaise (overall discomfort) and chills are also included in this category. These reactions are observed in a smaller percentage of vaccine recipients.
Rare and Serious Adverse Events
In very infrequent cases, more serious adverse events have been documented following Covaxin administration. These events are rare, and regulatory bodies track them through post-market surveillance to maintain the vaccine’s safety profile.
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is a recognized but very rare risk with nearly all vaccines. Vaccine providers are prepared for this, and individuals are monitored for 15 to 30 minutes after receiving the shot to manage any immediate reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face and throat
- A rapid heartbeat
- A rash across the body
Other serious events have been reported, although their direct link to the vaccine can be difficult to establish. One clinical trial identified a case of immune thrombocytopenia, a blood disorder, considered related to the vaccine. Another study reported serious adverse events like stroke and Guillain-Barre syndrome in about one percent of individuals studied.
Managing Side Effects and When to Seek Help
For mild to moderate side effects after receiving Covaxin, simple at-home care can provide relief.
- Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth to the injection site to reduce pain or swelling.
- Keep the arm moving to reduce stiffness.
- Stay well-hydrated to help with systemic symptoms.
- Get plenty of rest.
Over-the-counter medications can manage these symptoms. Pain relievers like paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen can reduce fever and alleviate muscle pain or headaches. It is not recommended to take these medications before vaccination to prevent side effects. It is best to wait and treat symptoms as they arise.
You should contact a healthcare provider if side effects are severe or persist for more than a few days. Seek immediate medical attention for any signs of a severe allergic reaction or other serious symptoms, including:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face and throat
- A rapid heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- A severe and persistent headache