Getting a vaccine is not an assurance of not getting sick. However, it will decrease your chances of getting it. It is similar to the pneumonia shot. After having I, you may still get sick, but a milder one. Elders have more chances of getting it because they have a lower immune system. A sign of it is trouble breathing. Some people are having a second thought because of pneumonia vaccine side effects. These side effects are a normal reaction of the body after the shot. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about.
The following are truths about the shot, possible side effects, and who should get the vaccine as protection.
1. Who should get the shot?
There are age group and people who need to get the shot right away.
- Elderly 65 and up: As people age, the immune system is not working at its best as when the body is young. Therefore, the body will have a hard time fighting the infection. If you are 65 and above, then it is vital to get the shot.
- People who are sick: If you are ill, your immune system is not in good condition. As a result, the body will not be able to fight another illness like pneumonia. For instance, diseases like heart problems, lung issues, and diabetes will make your body weak. Also, cancer patients receiving treatment are very weak to fight infection.
- Smokers: if you are a chain smoker, it makes your lungs weak to fight off infection. Therefore, the small hair inside your lungs will not work properly. This hair works as a filter to stop germs from going inside.
- Alcohol drinkers: drinking too much alcohol can also make your body weak. Hence, white blood cells will not work properly to fight infection.
- People who undergo surgery: If you are recovering from surgery, you have a weak immune system. Therefore, you have a higher chance of having pneumonia.
If you belong to this group of people, it is essential to talk to a doctor about pneumonia vaccine side effects. Also, one should not worry if the doctor agrees to give the shot.
2. Mild Side Effects
Moreover, like any other shots, it is possible to experience milder pneumonia shots side effects. The level of seriousness of the effect depends on your body’s reaction. Typically, it will go away after a few days or a week. Actually, there are different kinds of vaccines. The following are effects acceding to the type of shot.
- PCV13: If you get this shot, you may experience mild fever, headache, chills, tiredness, and poor appetite.
- PPSV23: People who get this shot will be likely to have a mild fever, pain on the site of the injection, and muscle pain in some parts of the body.
3. Serious Side Effects
Furthermore, children and the elderly may have severe pneumonia shots side effects. However, it is uncommon to happen. People with serious reaction to it may experience:
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Wheezing
- Lightheaded
- Heavy sweating
If anyone you know develops severe pneumococcal vaccine side effects, then seek medical help.
4. Side Effects in Babies
It is recommended for babies to get several shots. The first one is for two months, the next is six months old, and the last one is given around 12 to 15 months. Commonly, babies receive the PCV13, and side effects are:
- Skin redness
- Swelling
- Sleepiness
- Mild fever
- Loss of appetite
The uncommon pneumococcal vaccine side effects are high fever, rashes, and convulsion. Therefore, when it happens, look for immediate medical attention.
5. Who should not get the shot?
Moreover, some people should not get a shot according to the type of vaccine.
PCV13 Shot
- People who are sick
- Those who experience a severe allergic reaction on the first shot of PCV13
- If you are allergic to the previous version PCV7
PPSV23 Shot
- If you are sick
- Pregnant women
- History of allergic reaction the first shot
- If you experience a reaction to any of its ingredients
If you are not confident that you are safe to get the shot, ask for a doctor’s advice.
