H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccine Side Effects and Safety
The Threat of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in an Influenza Pandemic
Sep 21, 2009
With the recent outbreak of the H1N1 swine flu, and the Center for Disease Control’s revelation that the 2009-2010 flu season is expected to be extremely intense, many people are debating the safety of the newly developed H1N1 swine flu immunization.
With the expected release date of the vaccination in mid-October, certain groups of people that are recommended to get the flu shot early must decide soon whether the 2009 swine flu shot will mirror the side effects of the 1976 vaccination, which led to cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome
According to the CDC, Guillain-Barré syndrome, a neurological disorder, is a disorder where the body damages its own nerve cells outside the spinal cord and brain. The tingling and weakness associated with the disease may begin in the lower extremities, and eventually work its way into the upper extremities, such as the arms.
Although this autoimmune disorder can eventually go away in certain cases, other cases can lead to paralysis and permanent breathing assistance due to lack of muscle cooperation. Even cases that do not progress may still lead to long-term mild weakness and fatigue.
What Causes Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré syndrome is believed to be caused by an infection which in turn attacks the immune system in individuals, leading to an autoimmune disorder. The onset of the disorder is usually preceded by a bacterium or respiratory or intestinal infection.
The syndrome, however, was indeed caused by the 1976 vaccination. As listed on the CDC’s website, “In 1976, vaccination with the swine flu vaccine was associated with getting GBS.”
Side Effects of 2009 Swine Flu Vaccinations
According to the CDC, the 2009 swine flu vaccination is expected to have side effects that are comparable to the regular influenza vaccination that has been available for years. The Guillain-Barré syndrome epidemic is not considered a threat for this round of swine flu vaccinations.
Mild symptoms that may occur soon after that shot and last a day or two, and are comparable to the influenza shot are soreness or redness where the shot occurred, possible nausea and headache, muscle aches, or fever.
Life-threatening reactions to the vaccine are considered rare and usually occur within hours of the shot. The CDC recommends contacting a physician immediately if any of the following symptoms develop: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling around the eyes or lips, weakness, paleness, dizziness or an increased heart beat.
How the CDC Monitors the Safety of the Swine Flu Vaccine
The CDC has implemented two programs to monitor the safety of the 2009 swine flu vaccination.
The Vaccine Adverse Event Report System allows persons who have a reaction to the swine flu vaccine to report the symptoms to the CDC. This can be reported by anyone, not just healthcare officials, and all people are encouraged to report any reactions even if it is not known if the vaccination was the true cause of any adverse reactions.
The Vaccine Safety Datalink Project collaborates data between the CDC and eight large managed care organizations, compiling adverse reports from the vaccination. Together, they monitor adverse symptoms to monitor safety of all vaccinations.
Swine Flu Vaccination Safety
With the clear and defined outbreak of the neurological disorder Guillain-Barré syndrome, it is clear to see why so many skeptics of the 2009 vaccine exist. The CDC, with collaborative efforts is working to ensure that another outbreak does not occur again with the 2009 swine flu vaccine. It is important to speak with a physician about any concerns that may sway one from getting the vaccination.
Sources: Center for Disease Control
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