The flu has been particularly severe this season. According to one source, over 4,000 people died from flu-related or pneumonia-related reasons during the third week of 2018. At this time, the number of flu-like illnesses being reported is as high as the peak of the swine flu in 2009. The number also exceeded the severe flu outbreak in 2003.
The current influenza vaccine is only effective in about 30 percent of the cases. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) still recommend being vaccinated for the flu. Many people have chosen to take the flu shot this year as recommended by the CDC, but not everyone. Some people choose not to take the flu shot because they do not believe it can prevent the flu or they believe the vaccine can be harmful. However, it is a personal decision that should be made after consulting with your doctor. Most doctors and the CDC still recommend getting the flu shot.
What are the Side Effects of the Flu Vaccine?
Most physicians will recommend that you get the flu shot because it is effective in preventing the flu. If you do get the flu, the vaccine can make the symptoms and duration less severe. However, there are serious side effects associated with the vaccine. As with any vaccine, some people who take the flu shot will experience some negative side-effects.
In most cases, a sore arm for a day or two is the only negative side effect many people experience. However, it is important that you understand the risk of side effects from the flu show and know what to look for to protect yourself. Listen to your doctor’s warnings very carefully and read all material your doctor gives you about the flu shot, risks, and side effects.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is one of the rarest but most significant risks associated with the flu vaccine. GBS causes a person’s immune system to begin attacking healthy nerve cells. The result is a weakening of the muscles. In severe cases, the person can suffer permanent and complete paralysis. GBS usually affects people who are 50 years old and older, but it has occurred in young adults and children. The severity of GBS differs from person to person, and it is possible to live a normal life after suffering from GBS.
Side Effects to Be Worried About
In most cases, people do not suffer any serious side effects from the flu shot. However, that is not true in all cases. It is very important to know the signs of serious side effects of the flu shot so that you can seek immediate medical attention.
If you experience any of the following symptoms or any unexplained symptoms after taking the flu vaccine, you need to seek immediate medical help:
- Difficulty catching your breath, taking a deep breath, or breathing
- Problems swallowing food or chewing
- Tingling in your toes or fingers
- You become dizzy or have difficulty maintaining your balance
- You experience weakness in your legs that begins to spread to your upper extremities
The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
While most people who take vaccines do not experience serious or life-threatening conditions, that is not the case for everyone. The federal government’s Vaccine Injury Compensation Program assists individuals who experience serious side effects after taking a vaccine. You should contact the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program if you or a loved one has suffered serve or life-threatening side effects from a vaccine.
New Orleans Defective Drug Attorneys
Some drugs should not be on the market because they injure people. Because of the negligence of some drug companies, people have lost their lives or suffered severe injuries after taking defective medications.
The pharmaceutical litigation attorneys of The Olinde Firm help families who have been impacted by dangerous medications. Call Attorney Fred Olinde at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to request a free consultation with a national pharmaceutical litigation attorney.