Over the past nine years, Americans have received more than 2.5 billion vaccinations. Each year, these vaccinations lead to countless side effects and injuries. While the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that hundreds of people hire attorneys to file claims with the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) every year, we know that many, many more people fail to seek compensation for their injuries.

Ranging from redness and swelling to potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions, vaccines have a wide range of side effects. In this article, we highlight some of risks associated with the most common vaccines in the United States. Note that these lists are not exhaustive. You can use the links provided to find additional information.

Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

Children and adults alike can suffer adverse side effects after being vaccinated for chickenpox (also known as varicella). While the chickenpox vaccine is typically administered in two doses starting at around 12 months of age, adults who have not previously been vaccinated can receive vaccinations as well. Possible side effects of the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine include:

  • Brain damage
  • Fever
  • Low blood count
  • Pneumonia
  • Soreness and swelling
  • Seizures

Flu Vaccine

Doctors generally recommend that children and adults receive a flu vaccination every year. Part of the reason for this is that, each year, scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) make an educated guess as to the flu strains that are likely to be most prevalent during the flu season. Drug manufacturers then produce vaccines designed to protect against those specific strains. Unfortunately, this variation can make the flu vaccine dangerous for many recipients. Common risks associated with flu vaccines include:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Fever
  • Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS)
  • Headaches
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Vomiting

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and can lead to cirrhosis, cancer, other lifelong complications and even death. The Hepatitis B vaccine is generally effective in preventing infection, but it carries its own risks as well. Side effects and injuries associated with the Hepatitis B vaccine include:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fever
  • Serious complications for individuals who are ill or have yeast allergies
  • Soreness at the injection site

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccine

HPV is the most common sexually-transmitted infection in the United States. Prevention options include vaccination with Cervarix, Gardasil and Gardasil 9, which are all typically administered at age 11 or 12. Side effects of the HPV vaccines include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Seizures
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness, fainting and confusion

Mumps, Measles and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

Mumps, measles and rubella are airborne viruses, and – as a result – are extremely dangerous. Children typically receive MMR vaccines over a serious of injections beginning at 12 to 15 months of age. Unfortunately, MMR vaccines carry their own risks as well. These include:

  • Blood disorders
  • Brain damage
  • Deafness
  • Fevers
  • Seizures
  • Swelling

Tetanus Vaccine

People typically receive tetanus vaccines, including DTaP and TDaP, as adolescents and adults. These vaccines protect against multiple dangerous diseases, but – like other vaccinations – theyalso have dangerous side effects. The risks associated with tetanus vaccines include:

  • Allergic reactions
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Brachial neuritis
  • Brain damage
  • Fever and vomiting
  • Parsonage-Turner Syndrome

Contact Vaccine Injury Attorney Leah Durant Today

If you, your child or another loved one has suffered side effects or injuries after receiving a vaccination, you may be entitled to compensation through the VICP. At the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant & Associates, we represent victims of vaccine injuries in VICP claims nationwide. To speak with an attorney for free (the VICP will pay your attorneys’ fees), please call (202) 775-9200 or send us an email today.