A vaccine is an important medical tool that protects people from getting severe illnesses. Credit to vaccine manufacturers, there are extremely few cases where people are infected and die from severe infections like chickenpox, measles, mumps, or polio.
Despite the numerous benefits of vaccines, there is a chance of developing allergic reactions. Some of these allergic reactions can be life-threatening, highlighting the need to be aware of common reactions and the potential side effects of any vaccine.
Fortunately, the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program(VICP) may compensate injured victims after suffering injuries due to a VICP-covered vaccine. A trusted vaccine injury attorney can assess and explain your rights as an injured victim and how to obtain compensation.
What Is an Allergic Reaction to a Vaccine?
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a foreign object, e.g., a vaccine shot. Usually, the immune system produces substances known as allergies. When you have an allergy, the immune system produces antibodies that identify a specific antibody as harmful even though it isn’t.
Common substances that cause allergic reactions include pollen, food, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores. Triggers for allergic reactions are called allergens— in rare cases, an allergen can be a vaccine.
Symptoms of allergic reactions include:
- Rash
- Itchy skin
- Hives
- Facial swelling
- Wheezing
Anaphylaxis
Although rare, a vaccine shot can cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It occurs within seconds of taking something you’re allergic to, including vaccines. In anaphylaxis, the immune system releases substantial chemicals that cause the body to suffer shock.
The victim’s blood pressure suddenly drops, and airways narrow, blocking your breathing.
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Fainting and dizziness
- Skin reaction, including hives, itching, pale and flushed skin
- Low blood pressure
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea
- A rapid and weak pulse
People with heart conditions, allergies, or asthma are at increased risk of having anaphylaxis. Treatment of anaphylaxis requires injection of epinephrine and a follow-up visit to an emergency room.
Can the Flu Vaccine Cause Allergic Reactions?
Yes, any vaccine, including the flu vaccine, can potentially cause an allergic reaction, although such reactions are typically rare.
The flu vaccine can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis with symptoms such as troubled breathing, itching, and swelling on your hands.
Other vaccines that cause severe allergic reactions include Hepatitis B, Polio (IPV), and Measles, Mumps, or Rubella (MMR or MMRV).
Get in Touch With an Experienced Vaccine Injury for Legal Assistance
Suppose you develop Anaphylaxis, a severe immune response to a vaccine shot. In that case, you may endure pain and suffering, hefty medical bills, and lost income for the days you spent away from work recovering from the injury.
You, therefore, deserve representation from a legal professional like Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates, who’ll aggressively fight for a fair settlement value for your losses.
Contact Our Experienced Vaccine Injury Lawyers
If you or your child has experienced adverse reactions following a vaccination, do not hesitate to contact Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates. With over 40 years of legal expertise and a success rate exceeding 90%, our team is equipped to offer exceptional representation in vaccine injury cases. Call us today at (888) 891-2816 to explore how we can assist you.