The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine has been a significant tool in preventing pneumococcal diseases in children and adults. This vaccine is designed to protect against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can lead to severe conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of people experiencing life-threatening allergic reactions following a pneumococcal shot.
From the cases we handled at Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates, we recognize that the effects of pneumonia shots should not be taken lightly, and victims need to take appropriate action. A vaccine injury attorney will help build a strong legal strategy to hold the liable parties accountable.
Serious Adverse Reactions and Injuries Linked to Pneumonia Vaccinations
While serious injuries linked to pneumonia vaccinations are rare, some individuals have been reported to experience life-threatening reactions after the shot. Some of these reactions include:
- Severe allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis).
- Transverse myelitis (TM)
- Seizures
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)
- Unusual behavior or confusion
- Severe injury in the shoulder or loss of arm movement (SIRVA)
- Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Fainting following an injection (Syncope)
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
These serious reactions are rare, but if you have concerns or experience unusual symptoms, you need to consult with a healthcare professional promptly.
What Are the Common Side Effects of the Pneumonia Vaccine?
Common side effects of the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) are generally mild and short-lived. These may include:
- Pain at the injection site
- Headache
- The injection site may also become red and swollen
- Ringing in the ears
- A mild fever can occur as the body’s immune system responds to the vaccine
- Individuals, especially children, may display increased irritability
- Temporary loss of appetite
- Feeling tired
- Muscle or joint pain
- Feels dizzy
- Vision changes
Who Should and Shouldn’t Get the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) for the following groups:
- Children under two years of age
- Older adults over 65 years, especially those with potentially weakened immune systems, to guard against pneumococcal diseases.
However, certain individuals should avoid or delay vaccination, including:
- Children under two years old, especially for PPSV23
- Individuals who have had severe allergic reactions to a previous pneumococcal vaccine
- Those who are currently have a fever or are feeling unwell
- Expectant mothers should wait until they give birth
To avoid unnecessary injuries after the shot, we advise people to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate vaccination plan based on individual health circumstances.
Legal Options and Compensation for Pneumonia Vaccine Side Effects
If you or a loved one has experienced side effects from a pneumonia vaccine, particularly PCV13, you can file a vaccine injury claim with the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) for compensation. The VICP operates under a no-fault system, and that means you can seek compensation without the need to prove fault. This system provides a streamlined process for victims to seek compensation. Your vaccine injury lawyer will gather and present evidence related to the vaccine injury to ensure a compelling claim.
Consider legal assistance from Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates. We have handled and secured hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements for vaccine-injury clients. Reach out today and let us evaluate your vaccine injury case at no cost.