Swine Flu Vaccine Safety:
Health experts believe that the swine flu vaccine will be just as safe as the seasonal flu vaccine, which, in general, has a very good track record for safety. Millions of Americans, including people with COPD, receive the seasonal flu vaccine every year, reporting only mild side effects. The CDC and the FDA will be closely monitoring the public for any signs of adverse effects related to the swine flu vaccine.
Side Effects of the Swine Flu Vaccine:
The CDC expects that, if side effects do occur from the swine flu vaccine, they will be like those experienced from the seasonal flu vaccine. Mild problems that COPD patients may experience include:
- Soreness, redness and/or swelling at the injection site
- Fainting (mainly in adolescents)
- Headache
- Muscular aches
- Fever
- Nausea
Serious Side Effects Are Rare:
In rare cases, a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction may occur after getting a vaccination. COPD patients should seek immediate, medical attention if they experience any of the following, serious side effects:
- Difficulty breathing, hoarseness or wheezing
- Swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue, or any part of the face
- Hives or rash
- Paleness
- Weakness or dizziness
- Rapid heart beat
Who Should Not Get the Swine Flu Vaccine:
People who are allergic to eggs or any other substance found in the swine flu vaccine should not be vaccinated.
Other Ingredients That May Be in the Swine Flu Vaccine:
Reportedly, the 2009 H1N1 vaccine will NOT be containing any vaccine additives, which are ingredients used to make the vaccine work better.
Swine flu vaccines WITH adjuvants are being studied to determine if they are safe and effective. Until the data is analyzed, there is no plan to use adjuvants in the 2009 H1N1 vaccine.
Vials containing more than one dose of the swine flu vaccine (multi-dose vials) will contain thimerosol, a mercury-based preservative that has been used for decades in the U.S. to help prevent the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Single-dose vials will not contain thimerosol.
Not All COPD Patients At Risk For Swine Flu:
The good news about the swine flu is that adults 65 and older with or without COPD are NOT at high risk for catching it. In contrast, adults between the ages of 25 and 64 who do have a chronic illness like COPD ARE at high risk, and among those recommended to be initially vaccinated.
To find out which groups should be vaccinated first, read Who With COPD Should Get the Swine Flu Vaccine?
For more information about swine flu vaccine safety, visit the CDC.
