For older adults, staying protected against respiratory illnesses like pneumococcal pneumonia is a top health priority. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends pneumococcal vaccination for all adults 65 years and older to prevent serious disease. While the benefits of vaccination are significant, it's natural for individuals and their caregivers to wonder about potential side effects, particularly how they affect older adults. The vast majority of reactions are mild and short-lived, while serious complications are very rare.
Common and Mild Side Effects
After receiving a pneumococcal vaccine, older adults may experience mild side effects that typically last for one to two days. These symptoms indicate that the body is building an immune response and are not a cause for alarm unless they are severe or persistent.
- Injection site reactions: The most frequent side effects are localized to the arm where the shot was given. These can include pain, soreness, redness, swelling, and tenderness. A hard lump may also form at the injection site.
- Fatigue and tiredness: A general feeling of being unusually tired or fatigued is common following the vaccination.
- Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
- Muscle aches and joint pain: Body aches, muscle stiffness, or joint pain can sometimes develop as a systemic reaction.
- Fever and chills: A low-grade fever and feeling chilly can happen, but high fevers are less common.
- Loss of appetite: Some individuals report a temporary loss of appetite after their vaccination.
- Feeling irritable: A brief period of irritability or fussiness can occur.
Less Common and Rare Side Effects
In some cases, less common or very rare side effects may occur. It is important to be aware of these but to remember that they are not typical.
- Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are very rare but possible with any vaccine. Signs of a severe allergic reaction, which require immediate medical attention, include hives, swelling of the face and throat, trouble breathing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness.
- Swollen lymph glands: Swollen and tender lymph glands, particularly in the neck, armpit, or groin, can occur.
- Systemic inflammatory reaction: Extremely rarely, some individuals may experience a more robust systemic inflammatory reaction, sometimes mistaken for cellulitis, which includes fever, leukocytosis (high white blood cell count), and a large local reaction.
Comparing Side Effects of Different Pneumonia Vaccines
Older adults typically receive one of two types of pneumococcal vaccines, PCV20 (a conjugate vaccine) or PPSV23 (a polysaccharide vaccine), and sometimes a combination depending on their vaccination history. While the side effect profiles are similar, some minor differences exist.
| Feature | PCV20 (Prevnar 20) | PPSV23 (Pneumovax 23) |
|---|---|---|
| Common Injection Site Reactions | Pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness are frequently reported. | Pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness are frequently reported. |
| Common Systemic Reactions | Fatigue, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, and loss of appetite are common. | Fatigue, headache, and muscle aches are common. |
| Frequency of Reactions | Studies comparing PCV vaccines (like PCV13) with PPSV23 in older adults found similar adverse event rates. | Studies comparing PPSV23 with placebo found most common reactions occurred at rates significantly higher than placebo, but they were still mild. |
| Rare Reactions | Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare. | Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare. A robust systemic inflammatory reaction has been observed in some cases. |
| What to Watch For | Watch for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat. | Watch for signs of a severe allergic reaction. Unusual fever or swelling could indicate a more significant (but non-infectious) inflammatory response. |
What to Do for Side Effects
Managing mild side effects is generally straightforward and can help make the post-vaccination period more comfortable.
- For injection site discomfort: Apply a cool, wet washcloth to the area to help reduce redness and swelling. Moving the arm can also help reduce stiffness.
- For fever or pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to manage fever, headache, and muscle aches, unless contraindicated by a healthcare provider.
- For tiredness: Rest and stay hydrated. These symptoms usually pass within a day or two.
- When to contact a doctor: While most reactions are mild, you should contact a healthcare professional if side effects persist beyond a few days or worsen.
- Seek immediate medical care: Call 911 immediately if any signs of a severe allergic reaction occur, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or a fast heartbeat.
Conclusion
For older adults, the decision to get the pneumococcal vaccine is a significant step toward preventing severe illness. While mild side effects like injection site soreness, fatigue, and headache are common and usually resolve quickly, serious reactions are rare. The benefits of protecting against potentially life-threatening pneumococcal disease far outweigh the low risk of vaccine side effects. By understanding what to expect and how to manage mild symptoms, older adults can feel more confident about their vaccination decision. Open communication with a healthcare provider is the best way to address any specific concerns or questions regarding pneumococcal vaccination.
Resources
To learn more about pneumococcal vaccination, including specific recommendations for adults based on age and health conditions, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines.
