Each year, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes World Immunization Week during the last week of April. For 2020, the theme was #VaccinesWork for All, and the WHO focused its awareness campaign on, “how vaccines as well as the people who develop, deliver and receive them are . . . champions by working to protect the health of everyone, everywhere.” Continue reading
Monthly Archives: July 2020
Vaccination Information for Women Who are Pregnant
During pregnancy, vaccinations can provide protection against certain diseases for both the mother and the child. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains, “Pregnant women share everything with their babies. That means when a pregnant woman gets vaccines, she isn’t just protecting [herself]— she is giving the baby some early protection too.”
While the CDC provides general vaccine recommendations for adults, it provides certain specific recommendations for women who are pregnant. If you are expecting a child, it will be important for you to speak with your doctor about getting vaccinated during your pregnancy. Continue reading
What Should I Do if My Child is Complaining of Shoulder Pain After Getting a Flu Shot?
Shoulder pain is among the most-common complaints following vaccinations among both children and adults. In general, vaccine injections are expected to cause a moderate amount of shoulder pain, with this pain subsiding within 24 to 48 hours.
However, if shoulder pain following a vaccination persists, or if the pain is more than a mild throb at the injection site, it could potentially be symptomatic of a vaccine-related injury. These injuries, known as shoulder injuries related to vaccine administration (SIRVA), are among the most-common complications from vaccine injections, and they are a risk for vaccine recipients of all ages. Continue reading