Swine flu is a new virus that has gripped most parts of the world and has claimed many lives, so far. As the name suggests, the virus has been transferred to humans through pigs. Direct contact is believed to be the main route of transmission of this virus in animals and sometimes, in humans as well. Swine flu is known to be a highly contagious respiratory disease, caused by one of the many swine influenza viruses. H1N1 influenza virus is common among the pig populations worldwide. While the initial reports of humans detected with swine flu poured in from the western counties, it soon spread to a good part of the world, through infected people.
There are four vaccines that have been approved for swine flu. Many governments across the globe have recommended their nationals to get the H1N1 vaccine in order to spread the growth of swine flu. However, at the same time, many questions have also been raised regarding the side effects of the vaccine, as many of those who got themselves vaccinated have suffered from a variety of side effects. The clinical trials of H1N1 vaccine have also described some common side effects that the participants encountered. In the U.S, there is a choice between an H1N1 injection and spray. However, the side effects may be the same, no matter in which form the antibiotic is taken.
Negative Effects Of Swine Flu Vaccination
Minor Effects
Some of the most commonly reported minor effects of H1N1 vaccine include local discomfort at the injected area, such as redness, swelling and pain. In addition to this, some people may also experience headache, body aches, fatigue and nausea, and even have a mild fever post vaccination. These side effects are the typical ones associated with the influenza vaccinations. As of now, it is not clear whether these symptoms are caused by the additives within the vaccine or the inactive virus that causes an immune response during vaccination.
Severe Effects
Some severe effects of H1N1 vaccine may come from a variety of conditions in people.
- Swine flu vaccine can lead to certain reactions in people suffering from allergies, such as egg allergies and allergies to antibiotics, gelatin, monosodium glutamate (MSG), as all these substances are used in various formulations of H1N1 vaccine.
- Those who have suffered from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in the past are at a greater risk of contracting the disease again, if they take the H1N1 vaccination. GBS is a nerve disease that can lead to permanent numbness or paralysis. This condition is mostly associated with surgery and immunizations. Therefore, manufacturers recommend ex-GBS patients not to go for H1N1 vaccine.
- Some medical experts believe that autism and other neurological disorders can be triggered by the vaccination, due to the presence of additives like thimesoral. It is a preservative that contains mercury and is used to prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria in the vaccine between doses. The H1N1 vaccine is loaded with up to 25 micrograms of mercury (per dose). This dose is many times above than what a person can safely consume. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average consumption of mercury has to be one-tenth of a microgram for every 2.2 pounds of body weight.