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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 50 (from laksa179)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa050.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621","crawl_time":1776327362,"first_indexed_time":1618532194,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,verywellhealth!www,\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621 s443","src_root_hash":"5681562863987870850","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects and Safety","meta_descriptions":["Most people have a sore arm immediately after being vaccinated against COVID-19, and more systemic effects like fever and chills within 8 to 12 hours."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Key Takeaways\nMost side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days.\nSevere side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses.\nAfter getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions.\nIt is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.\nThe side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the\ntype of vaccine\nyou are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects.\nAlthough there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and\nanaphylaxis\n, the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022.\nIllustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health\nWhat Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines?\nAs of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):\nPfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine\nTwo Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike).\nNovavax, a protein subunit vaccine\nAlthough mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the\nimmune system\non how to build protective\nantibodies\n) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar.\nPfizer-BioNTech, Moderna\nInjection site pain and redness\nFatigue\nHeadache\nMuscle pain\nJoint pain\nChills\nFever\nNausea or vomiting (Moderna)\nCrying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants\nNovavax\nInjection site pain and redness\nFatigue\nHeadache\nMuscle pain\nJoint pain\nChills\nFever\nNausea or vomiting\nHow Quickly Do Side Effects Develop?\nIn the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary.\nFor most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations.\nIn a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as\nanaphylaxis\n. The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be.\nWith anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to\nshock\n, coma, and even death.\nThis is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur.\nEven so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will\nexperience a rash\n,\nonly a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses.\nSeek Emergency Care\nCall 911 if you have—or think you have—\nsigns of anaphylaxis\n, such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes.\nHow Long Do Side Effects Last?\nFollowing COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days.\nSymptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%.\nSide effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months.\nSymptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and \"brain fog.\"\nEven so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature.\nHow Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines?\nIn the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then.\nAt that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever.\nSince then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%),\nSevere Side Effects and Complications\nIn addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are\nmyocarditis\n(inflammation of the heart muscle) and\npericarditis\n(inflammation of the outer lining of the heart).\nThese side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.\nThere is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect.\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks:\nRate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people\nRate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people\nRate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people\nMoreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient.\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by:\nChest pain or discomfort\nA feeling of tightness in the chest\nShortness of breath\nduring activity or when lying down\nUnusual tiredness\nHeart palpitations\nLightheadedness or fainting\nSymptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like\ncardiac arrhythmia\n(irregular heartbeats) and\ncardiac arrest\n(in which the heart suddenly stops beating).\nWith that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like\ncolchicine\n,\nsteroids\n, or\nnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)\n.\nCan the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You?\nOf the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination.\nAmong young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found.\nThe information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#skip-to-content)\n\nMenu\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n  - [Colorectal Cancer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/colon-cancer-4014742)\n  - [Arthritis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/arthritis-overview-4582013)\n  - [Type 2 Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/type-2-diabetes-overview-4581874)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/digestive-health-4141198)\n  - [Multiple Sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925)\n  - [Skin Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/skin-health-4014649)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Prevention & Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/prevention-and-treatment-4158390)\n  - [Diet & 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All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412)\n\n[More in Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n\n- [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/diabetes-8431797)\n- [Liver Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/liver-health-information-diseases-care-and-treatment-6281099)\n- [Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/pregnancy-5116940)\n- [Menstruation](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/normal-menstruation-overview-4581922)\n- [Anatomy](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/anatomy-4588843)\n- [Arthritis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/arthritis-overview-4582013)\n- [Asthma](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/asthma-overview-4582010)\n- [Back & Neck Pain](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/back-and-neck-pain-overview-4581999)\n- [Blood Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/blood-disorders-overview-4581998)\n- [Cancer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cancer-overview-4581995)\n- [Cold & 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Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sexual-health-4014651)\n- [Skin Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/skin-health-4014649)\n- [Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n- [Urological Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/urological-health-4014631)\n- [Lung Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lung-health-4845936)\n- [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/mental-health-5079153)\n- [Transgender Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/transgender-health-5069730)\n\n[View More](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n\nTools & Resources\n\n- [Thyroid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thyroid-test-analyzer-8647820)\n- [Doctor Discussion Guides](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/doctor-discussion-guides-4179090)\n- [Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/a1c-test-analyzer-8647852)\n- [Lipid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lipid-test-analyzer-8647856)\n- [Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/complete-blood-count-cbc-analyzer-8647862)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305)\n- [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n- [Medical Review Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nVerywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\n# Side Effects and Safety of Latest COVID-19 Vaccines\nBy [Claire Bugos](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/claire-bugos-5081436)\n\nUpdated on March 03, 2026\n\nMedically reviewed by  [Jordana Haber Hazan, MD](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/jordana-haber-hazan-5216283)\n\nTable of Contents\n\nView All\n\nTable of Contents\n\n- [Common Side Effects](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-what-are-the-common-side-effects-of-covid-19-vaccines)\n- [When They Appear](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-quickly-do-side-effects-develop)\n- [Duration](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-long-do-side-effects-last)\n- [How Common Are They?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-common-are-side-effects-from-covid-19-vaccines)\n- [Rare Complications](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-severe-side-effects-and-complications)\n\n### Key Takeaways\n- Most side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days.\n- Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses.\n- After getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions.\n\nIt is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.\n\nThe side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the [type of vaccine](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-19-vaccine-types-5091935) you are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects.\n\nAlthough there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and [anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/first-aid-allergies-anaphylaxis-4013031), the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022.\n\n![An illustration with timeline for potential vaccine side effects]()\n\n![An illustration with timeline for potential vaccine side effects](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/d9KUaVxCILFKFG9lH2cJxhe8WLU=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-TheresaChiechi-TimelineforVaccineSideEffects-Standard-e12d0ad3c7f74acdabbc6921c5ddf54c.jpg)\n\nIllustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health\n## What Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines?\nAs of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):\n\n- Pfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine\n- Two Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike).\n- Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine\n\nAlthough mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the [immune system](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-the-medical-immunity-3955691) on how to build protective [antibodies](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/how-do-vaccines-work-4153906)) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar.\n\nPfizer-BioNTech, Moderna\n\n- Injection site pain and redness\n- Fatigue\n- Headache\n- Muscle pain\n- Joint pain\n- Chills\n- Fever\n- Nausea or vomiting (Moderna)\n- Crying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants\n\nNovavax\n\n- Injection site pain and redness\n- Fatigue\n- Headache\n- Muscle pain\n- Joint pain\n- Chills\n- Fever\n- Nausea or vomiting\n## How Quickly Do Side Effects Develop?\nIn the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary.\n\nFor most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations.\n\nIn a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as [anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253). The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be.\n\nWith anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to [shock](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/shock-8400758), coma, and even death.\n\nThis is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur.\n\nEven so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will [experience a rash](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-arm-8608695), only a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses.\n\n### Seek Emergency Care\nCall 911 if you have—or think you have—[signs of anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253), such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes.\n## How Long Do Side Effects Last?\nFollowing COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days.\n\nSymptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%.\n\nSide effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months.\n\nSymptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and \"brain fog.\"\n\nEven so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature.\n\n## How Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines?\nIn the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then.\n\nAt that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever.\n\nSince then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%),\n\n## Severe Side Effects and Complications\nIn addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are [myocarditis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/myocarditis-inflammatory-disease-1746163) (inflammation of the heart muscle) and [pericarditis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/pericarditis-symptoms-8605139) (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart).\n\nThese side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.\n\nThere is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect.\n\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks:\n\n- Rate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people\n- Rate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people\n- Rate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people\n\nMoreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient.\n\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by:\n\n- Chest pain or discomfort\n- A feeling of tightness in the chest\n- [Shortness of breath](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/shortness-of-breath-possible-causes-and-evaluation-2249306) during activity or when lying down\n- Unusual tiredness\n- [Heart palpitations](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/heart-palpitations-1745232)\n- Lightheadedness or fainting\n\nSymptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like [cardiac arrhythmia](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cardiac-arrhythmias-signs-and-symptoms-4160572) (irregular heartbeats) and [cardiac arrest](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cardiac-arrest-symptoms-1298734) (in which the heart suddenly stops beating).\n\nWith that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like [colchicine](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/colchicine-to-treat-gout-189559), [steroids](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/facts-about-corticosteroids-steroids-188358), or [nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734).\n\n### Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You?\nOf the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination.\n\nAmong young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found.\n\n*The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.*\n\nRead more:\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n\n16 Sources\n\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. American Heart Association. [What is pericarditis?](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/pericarditis\/what-is-pericarditis)\n2. Raethke M, van Hunsel F, Luxi N, et al. [Frequency and timing of adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines; a multi-country cohort event monitoring study](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.vaccine.2024.03.001), *Vaccine*. 2024;42(9):2357-2369. doi:10.1016\/j.vaccine.2024.03.001\n3. Picard M, Stone CA, Greenhawt M. [Management of patients with immediate reactions to COVID-19 vaccines](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016%2Fj.jaci.2022.09.003). *J Allergy Clin Immunol*. 2023 Feb;151(2):413–415. doi:10.1016\/j.jaci.2022.09.003\n4. MedlinePlus. [Allergic reactions](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/ency\/article\/000005.htm).\n5. Jaggers J, Wolfson AR. [mRNA COVID-19 vaccine anaphylaxis: epidemiology, risk factors, and evaluation](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007%2Fs11882-023-01065-2). *Curr Allergy Asthma Rep*. 2023;23(3):195–200. doi:10.1007\/s11882-023-01065-2\n6. John Hopkins Medicine. [COVID-19 vaccine: what you need to know](https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/conditions-and-diseases\/coronavirus\/covid-19-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know).\n7. Breeher LE, Wolf ME, Geyer H, et al. [Work absence following COVID-19 vaccination in a cohort of healthcare personnel](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097%2FJOM.0000000000002376). *J Occup Environ Med.* 2022 Jan;64(1):6–9. doi:10.1097\/JOM.0000000000002376\n8. Finsterer J. [A case report: long post-COVID vaccination syndrome during the eleven months after the third Moderna dose](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.7759%2Fcureus.32433). *Cureus.* 2022 Dec;14(12):e32433. doi:10.7759\/cureus.32433\n9. Finterer J, Scorza FA. [A retrospective analysis of clinically confirmed long post-COVID vaccination syndrome](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9706319\/). *J Clin Transl Res.* 2022 Dec 29;8(6):506–508.\n10. Amer SA, Al-Zahrani A, Imam EA, et al. [Exploring the reported adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines among vaccinated Arab populations: a multi-national survey study](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41598-024-54886-0). 2024;14:4785. doi:10.1038\/s41598-024-54886-0\n11. Li Y, Li J, Dang Y, Chen Y, Tao C. [Adverse events of COVID-19 vaccines in the United States: temporal and spatial analysis](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/51007). *JMIR Public Health Surveill*. 2024;10:e51007 doi:10.2196\/5100\n12. American Heart Association. [Myocarditis](https:\/\/www.heart.org\/en\/health-topics\/myocarditis).\n13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [Clinical considerations: myocarditis and pericarditis after receipt of COVID-19 vaccines among adolescents and young adults](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/vaccines\/covid-19\/clinical-considerations\/myocarditis.html).\n14. Fairchild D, Beetler DJ, Di Florio DN, et al. [COVID-19, myocarditis and pericarditis](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1161\/CIRCRESAHA.123.321878). *Circulation Res.* 2023;32(10). doi:10.1161\/CIRCRESAHA.123.321878\n15. Liko J, Cieslak PR. [Assessment of risk for sudden cardiac death among adolescents and young Adults after receipt of COVID-19 vaccine — Oregon, June 2021–December 2022](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.15585%2Fmmwr.mm7314a5). *MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep*. 2024 Apr 11;73(14):317–320. doi:10.15585\/mmwr.mm7314a5\n16. Liko J, Cieslak PR. [Assessment of risk for sudden cardiac death among adolescents and young adults after receipt of COVID-19 vaccine — Oregon, June 2021–December 2022](http:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.15585\/mmwr.mm7314a5). *MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep*. 2024;73:317–320. doi:10.15585\/mmwr.mm7314a5\n\n![Claire Bugos.]()\n\n![Claire Bugos.](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/7e_VMsPM2S8Fwp6LDQJqzMyR_u0=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/grad111-b39b11256df2462c8b04851148a78e31.jpg)\n\nBy [Claire Bugos](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/claire-bugos-5081436)   \n Bugos is a senior news reporter at Verywell Health. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Northwestern University.\n\n[See Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n\n[Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nShare Feedback\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nWhat is your feedback?\n\nHelpful\n\nReport an Error\n\nOther\n\nRelated Articles\n\n[![Woman Receiving COVID-19 Vaccination, vaccine symptoms contagious]() ![Woman Receiving COVID-19 Vaccination, vaccine symptoms contagious](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/RmWlXmYRQpPHCR1VogJaFHgi5Tg=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-GettyImages-2207690728-b238b4bd3f5841a79567a42242d80730.jpg) Are COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects Contagious?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-vaccine-side-effects-not-contagious-5182483)\n\n[![A person wearing a mask with a COVID19 vaccine vial and syringes in the background]() ![A person wearing a mask with a COVID19 vaccine vial and syringes in the background](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/u0WxbZ-KcmtMVu59wlbZ0Pk0p7c=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-VACCINESPACKAGE-COVID-vaccine-recommendation-1-FINAL-1-7464e732360143d797781ce96ba776de.png) What to Know About the 2025-2026 COVID Vaccine](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/fall-covid-vaccine-guide-11777880)\n\n[![A person with a headache sitting at home]() ![A person with a headache sitting at home](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/hln0jvcwgrl-MZmjS18nQwHfN0g=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/headache-GettyImages-1825551918-02b917cfe7db4740a6b76f155fd96c4d.jpg) How Long Do COVID-19 Headaches Last?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/how-long-does-covid-headache-last-8548149)\n\n[![Older woman receiving a vaccine shot in the arm. ]() ![Older woman receiving a vaccine shot in the arm. ](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/Aj6Pdp4kFI-LxcSm-KQbunxPCmQ=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1278800342-162254c52c774880aa1ff90f48b55f13.jpg) How Long Does COVID-19 Vaccine-Induced Immunity Last?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/length-of-covid-19-vaccine-immunity-5094857)\n\n[![A person is sick in bed with COVID]() ![A person is sick in bed with COVID](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/lruV03d_SgqWLkxPVmAhPOTOazg=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/sick-GettyImages-1152594228-22023f875d424279bb8a6876c0778d31.jpg) Vomiting With COVID: What Helps?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/is-vomiting-a-symptom-of-covid-8303173)\n\n[![COVID tests]() ![COVID tests](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/OneqrXfA2cDULV9t8kTk-qk--zk=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWHealth-COVID-Tests-V2-edit-2c9ca237496a4775a011f7964fcad8db.jpg) What to Do When You Feel Sick but Test Negative for COVID](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/keep-testing-negative-for-covid-7107807)\n\n[![A Black woman wearing a face mask lifting weights.]() ![A Black woman wearing a face mask lifting weights.](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/HA9bFpxXL9mFGVEtQopdzoqxss4=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/pexels-monstera-6998865-8623023e34964311b7d8caee02f049d4.jpeg) Can You Work Out If You Have COVID? 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[In the News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/in-the-news-4778971)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305#toc-contact-us)\n\nFollow Us\n\nVerywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\nVerywell Health is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.","attrs_readable_markdown":"### Key Takeaways\n- Most side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days.\n- Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses.\n- After getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions.\n\nIt is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.\n\nThe side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the [type of vaccine](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-19-vaccine-types-5091935) you are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects.\n\nAlthough there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and [anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/first-aid-allergies-anaphylaxis-4013031), the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022.\n\nIllustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health\n\n## What Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines?\nAs of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):\n\n- Pfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine\n- Two Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike).\n- Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine\n\nAlthough mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the [immune system](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-the-medical-immunity-3955691) on how to build protective [antibodies](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/how-do-vaccines-work-4153906)) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar.\n\nPfizer-BioNTech, Moderna\n\n- Injection site pain and redness\n- Fatigue\n- Headache\n- Muscle pain\n- Joint pain\n- Chills\n- Fever\n- Nausea or vomiting (Moderna)\n- Crying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants\n\nNovavax\n\n- Injection site pain and redness\n- Fatigue\n- Headache\n- Muscle pain\n- Joint pain\n- Chills\n- Fever\n- Nausea or vomiting\n## How Quickly Do Side Effects Develop?\nIn the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary.\n\nFor most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations.\n\nIn a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as [anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253). The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be.\n\nWith anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to [shock](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/shock-8400758), coma, and even death.\n\nThis is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur.\n\nEven so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will [experience a rash](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-arm-8608695), only a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses.\n\n### Seek Emergency Care\nCall 911 if you have—or think you have—[signs of anaphylaxis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253), such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes.\n## How Long Do Side Effects Last?\nFollowing COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days.\n\nSymptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%.\n\nSide effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months.\n\nSymptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and \"brain fog.\"\n\nEven so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature.\n\n## How Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines?\nIn the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then.\n\nAt that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever.\n\nSince then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%),\n\n## Severe Side Effects and Complications\nIn addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are [myocarditis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/myocarditis-inflammatory-disease-1746163) (inflammation of the heart muscle) and [pericarditis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/pericarditis-symptoms-8605139) (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart).\n\nThese side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.\n\nThere is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect.\n\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks:\n\n- Rate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people\n- Rate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people\n- Rate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people\n\nMoreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient.\n\nMyocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by:\n\n- Chest pain or discomfort\n- A feeling of tightness in the chest\n- [Shortness of breath](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/shortness-of-breath-possible-causes-and-evaluation-2249306) during activity or when lying down\n- Unusual tiredness\n- [Heart palpitations](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/heart-palpitations-1745232)\n- Lightheadedness or fainting\n\nSymptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like [cardiac arrhythmia](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cardiac-arrhythmias-signs-and-symptoms-4160572) (irregular heartbeats) and [cardiac arrest](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/cardiac-arrest-symptoms-1298734) (in which the heart suddenly stops beating).\n\nWith that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like [colchicine](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/colchicine-to-treat-gout-189559), [steroids](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/facts-about-corticosteroids-steroids-188358), or [nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734).\n\n### Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You?\nOf the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination.\n\nAmong young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found.\n\n*The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.*","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Key Takeaways Most side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days. Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses. After getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions. It is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. The side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the type of vaccine you are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects. Although there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and anaphylaxis , the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022. Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health What Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines? As of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Pfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine Two Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike). Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine Although mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the immune system on how to build protective antibodies ) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar. Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna Injection site pain and redness Fatigue Headache Muscle pain Joint pain Chills Fever Nausea or vomiting (Moderna) Crying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants Novavax Injection site pain and redness Fatigue Headache Muscle pain Joint pain Chills Fever Nausea or vomiting How Quickly Do Side Effects Develop? In the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary. For most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations. In a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as anaphylaxis . The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be. With anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to shock , coma, and even death. This is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur. Even so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will experience a rash , only a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses. Seek Emergency Care Call 911 if you have—or think you have— signs of anaphylaxis , such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes. How Long Do Side Effects Last? Following COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days. Symptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%. Side effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months. Symptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and "brain fog." Even so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature. How Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines? In the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then. At that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever. Since then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%), Severe Side Effects and Complications In addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart). These side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. There is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect. Myocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks: Rate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people Rate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people Rate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people Moreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient. Myocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by: Chest pain or discomfort A feeling of tightness in the chest Shortness of breath during activity or when lying down Unusual tiredness Heart palpitations Lightheadedness or fainting Symptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats) and cardiac arrest (in which the heart suddenly stops beating). With that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like colchicine , steroids , or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) . Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You? Of the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination. Among young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found. The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.
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[Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) - [Medical Review Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ⓒ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved # Side Effects and Safety of Latest COVID-19 Vaccines By [Claire Bugos](https://www.verywellhealth.com/claire-bugos-5081436) Updated on March 03, 2026 Medically reviewed by [Jordana Haber Hazan, MD](https://www.verywellhealth.com/jordana-haber-hazan-5216283) Table of Contents View All Table of Contents - [Common Side Effects](https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-what-are-the-common-side-effects-of-covid-19-vaccines) - [When They Appear](https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-quickly-do-side-effects-develop) - [Duration](https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-long-do-side-effects-last) - [How Common Are They?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-how-common-are-side-effects-from-covid-19-vaccines) - [Rare Complications](https://www.verywellhealth.com/when-to-expect-covid-19-vaccination-side-effects-5176621#toc-severe-side-effects-and-complications) ### Key Takeaways - Most side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days. - Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses. - After getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions. It is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. The side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the [type of vaccine](https://www.verywellhealth.com/covid-19-vaccine-types-5091935) you are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects. Although there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and [anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/first-aid-allergies-anaphylaxis-4013031), the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022. ![An illustration with timeline for potential vaccine side effects]() ![An illustration with timeline for potential vaccine side effects](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/d9KUaVxCILFKFG9lH2cJxhe8WLU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/VWH-TheresaChiechi-TimelineforVaccineSideEffects-Standard-e12d0ad3c7f74acdabbc6921c5ddf54c.jpg) Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health ## What Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines? As of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): - Pfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine - Two Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike). - Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine Although mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the [immune system](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-the-medical-immunity-3955691) on how to build protective [antibodies](https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-do-vaccines-work-4153906)) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar. Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna - Injection site pain and redness - Fatigue - Headache - Muscle pain - Joint pain - Chills - Fever - Nausea or vomiting (Moderna) - Crying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants Novavax - Injection site pain and redness - Fatigue - Headache - Muscle pain - Joint pain - Chills - Fever - Nausea or vomiting ## How Quickly Do Side Effects Develop? In the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary. For most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations. In a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as [anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253). The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be. With anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to [shock](https://www.verywellhealth.com/shock-8400758), coma, and even death. This is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur. Even so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will [experience a rash](https://www.verywellhealth.com/covid-arm-8608695), only a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses. ### Seek Emergency Care Call 911 if you have—or think you have—[signs of anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253), such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes. ## How Long Do Side Effects Last? Following COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days. Symptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%. Side effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months. Symptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and "brain fog." Even so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature. ## How Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines? In the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then. At that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever. Since then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%), ## Severe Side Effects and Complications In addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are [myocarditis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/myocarditis-inflammatory-disease-1746163) (inflammation of the heart muscle) and [pericarditis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/pericarditis-symptoms-8605139) (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart). These side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. There is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect. Myocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks: - Rate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people - Rate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people - Rate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people Moreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient. Myocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by: - Chest pain or discomfort - A feeling of tightness in the chest - [Shortness of breath](https://www.verywellhealth.com/shortness-of-breath-possible-causes-and-evaluation-2249306) during activity or when lying down - Unusual tiredness - [Heart palpitations](https://www.verywellhealth.com/heart-palpitations-1745232) - Lightheadedness or fainting Symptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like [cardiac arrhythmia](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-arrhythmias-signs-and-symptoms-4160572) (irregular heartbeats) and [cardiac arrest](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-arrest-symptoms-1298734) (in which the heart suddenly stops beating). With that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like [colchicine](https://www.verywellhealth.com/colchicine-to-treat-gout-189559), [steroids](https://www.verywellhealth.com/facts-about-corticosteroids-steroids-188358), or [nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734). ### Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You? Of the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination. Among young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found. The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page. Read more: - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) 16 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. American Heart Association. [What is pericarditis?](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/pericarditis/what-is-pericarditis) 2. Raethke M, van Hunsel F, Luxi N, et al. [Frequency and timing of adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines; a multi-country cohort event monitoring study](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.03.001), Vaccine. 2024;42(9):2357-2369. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.03.001 3. Picard M, Stone CA, Greenhawt M. [Management of patients with immediate reactions to COVID-19 vaccines](https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.jaci.2022.09.003). J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023 Feb;151(2):413–415. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2022.09.003 4. MedlinePlus. [Allergic reactions](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000005.htm). 5. Jaggers J, Wolfson AR. [mRNA COVID-19 vaccine anaphylaxis: epidemiology, risk factors, and evaluation](https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs11882-023-01065-2). Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2023;23(3):195–200. doi:10.1007/s11882-023-01065-2 6. John Hopkins Medicine. [COVID-19 vaccine: what you need to know](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know). 7. Breeher LE, Wolf ME, Geyer H, et al. [Work absence following COVID-19 vaccination in a cohort of healthcare personnel](https://doi.org/10.1097%2FJOM.0000000000002376). J Occup Environ Med. 2022 Jan;64(1):6–9. doi:10.1097/JOM.0000000000002376 8. Finsterer J. [A case report: long post-COVID vaccination syndrome during the eleven months after the third Moderna dose](https://doi.org/10.7759%2Fcureus.32433). Cureus. 2022 Dec;14(12):e32433. doi:10.7759/cureus.32433 9. Finterer J, Scorza FA. [A retrospective analysis of clinically confirmed long post-COVID vaccination syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9706319/). J Clin Transl Res. 2022 Dec 29;8(6):506–508. 10. Amer SA, Al-Zahrani A, Imam EA, et al. [Exploring the reported adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines among vaccinated Arab populations: a multi-national survey study](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-54886-0). 2024;14:4785. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-54886-0 11. Li Y, Li J, Dang Y, Chen Y, Tao C. [Adverse events of COVID-19 vaccines in the United States: temporal and spatial analysis](https://doi.org/10.2196/51007). JMIR Public Health Surveill. 2024;10:e51007 doi:10.2196/5100 12. American Heart Association. [Myocarditis](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/myocarditis). 13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [Clinical considerations: myocarditis and pericarditis after receipt of COVID-19 vaccines among adolescents and young adults](https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/myocarditis.html). 14. Fairchild D, Beetler DJ, Di Florio DN, et al. [COVID-19, myocarditis and pericarditis](https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.321878). Circulation Res. 2023;32(10). doi:10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.321878 15. Liko J, Cieslak PR. [Assessment of risk for sudden cardiac death among adolescents and young Adults after receipt of COVID-19 vaccine — Oregon, June 2021–December 2022](https://doi.org/10.15585%2Fmmwr.mm7314a5). MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2024 Apr 11;73(14):317–320. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm7314a5 16. Liko J, Cieslak PR. [Assessment of risk for sudden cardiac death among adolescents and young adults after receipt of COVID-19 vaccine — Oregon, June 2021–December 2022](http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7314a5). MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2024;73:317–320. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm7314a5 ![Claire Bugos.]() ![Claire Bugos.](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/7e_VMsPM2S8Fwp6LDQJqzMyR_u0=/144x144/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/grad111-b39b11256df2462c8b04851148a78e31.jpg) By [Claire Bugos](https://www.verywellhealth.com/claire-bugos-5081436) Bugos is a senior news reporter at Verywell Health. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Northwestern University. [See Our Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) [Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! What is your feedback? 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Readable Markdown	### Key Takeaways - Most side effects from COVID-19 vaccines are mild and go away in 1 to 3 days. - Severe side effects like anaphylaxis are rare, happening in about five cases per million doses. - After getting the shot, people are asked to wait 15 minutes to monitor for any immediate severe reactions. It is not uncommon to experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine, most of which are relatively mild and short-lived. These commonly include side effects you might experience with other vaccines, such as injection site pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. The side effects (and risk of side effects) can vary based on the [type of vaccine](https://www.verywellhealth.com/covid-19-vaccine-types-5091935) you are given and whether this is your first or subsequent shot. Many people who receive a COVID vaccine experience no side effects. Although there is a risk of severe side effects, including heart inflammation and [anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/first-aid-allergies-anaphylaxis-4013031), the risk is considered small compared to the benefits. According to research from Columbia University, COVID-19 vaccination in the U.S. averted no less than 8.3 million infections, 681,000 hospitalizations, and 118,000 deaths from 2021 to 2022. Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health ## What Are the Common Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines? As of 2025, there are four COVID-19 vaccines approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): - Pfizer-BioNTech (marketed under the brand name Comirnaty), an mRNA vaccine - Two Moderna mRNA vaccines (marketed under the brand names Spikevax and Mnexspike). - Novavax, a protein subunit vaccine Although mRNA vaccines (which deliver genetic instructions to the [immune system](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-the-medical-immunity-3955691) on how to build protective [antibodies](https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-do-vaccines-work-4153906)) and protein subunit vaccines (which expose the immune system to harmless, manufactured proteins that mimic COVID-19) work differently, their common side effects are similar. Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna - Injection site pain and redness - Fatigue - Headache - Muscle pain - Joint pain - Chills - Fever - Nausea or vomiting (Moderna) - Crying, decreased appetite, and sleepiness in toddlers and infants Novavax - Injection site pain and redness - Fatigue - Headache - Muscle pain - Joint pain - Chills - Fever - Nausea or vomiting ## How Quickly Do Side Effects Develop? In the same way that some people experience side effects from COVID vaccines and others don't, the timing of side effects, if any, can also vary. For most, side effects tend to appear within 14 hours of the first vaccination and slightly longer for subsequent vaccinations. In a very small group of people, side effects may occur within minutes. An immediate reaction is troubling as it may be the sign of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body allergy known as [anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253). The sooner a reaction occurs, the more likely this will be. With anaphylaxis, a person will experience a spontaneous outbreak of rash or hives accompanied by breathing difficulties, abnormal heart rhythms, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If not treated as a medical emergency, anaphylaxis can lead to [shock](https://www.verywellhealth.com/shock-8400758), coma, and even death. This is why healthcare providers will often ask you to wait 15 minutes after vaccination before leaving so that treatment can be dispensed if anaphylaxis symptoms occur. Even so, the risk of this occurring is relatively small. While as many as 2% of people who get a COVID vaccine will [experience a rash](https://www.verywellhealth.com/covid-arm-8608695), only a very small proportion will experience anaphylaxis. According to a 2023 study from Harvard Medical School, the rate of anaphylaxis among COVID vaccine recipients is roughly five cases out of every million doses. ### Seek Emergency Care Call 911 if you have—or think you have—[signs of anaphylaxis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-anaphylactic-shock-1298253), such as shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. In some cases, death from anaphylaxis has been known to occur within 15 minutes. ## How Long Do Side Effects Last? Following COVID vaccination, side effects, if any, tend to last one to three days. Symptoms severe enough to require missing work or school are uncommon. A 2021 study from the Mayo Clinic reported that the rate of absenteeism among healthcare workers who received the COVID vaccine was 4.1%. Side effects can persist longer than this, though it is uncommon for these to last more than a week or two. In rare cases, a person may develop long post-COVID vaccination syndrome (LPCVS), defined as side effects lasting for more than four weeks in the absence of any other explanation. Some cases have been reported to last as long as 11 months. Symptoms typically include persistent headache, joint pain, muscle cramps, insomnia, visual disturbances, and "brain fog." Even so, LPCVS is thought to be rare. To date, few cases have been reported in the medical literature. ## How Common Are Side Effects From COVID-19 Vaccines? In the early part of the pandemic, most people experienced side effects from the vaccines. This was largely due to the fact that people were exposed to the vaccines for the first time and would almost invariably have a stronger immune reaction. Certain vaccines that are delivered in one dose today were given in two doses then. At that time, up to 77% experienced side effects after the first dose and up to 86% after the second dose. The majority had low-grade side effects, like fatigue and fever. Since then, the rate of reported side effects is relatively modest. Based on a review of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS), the most common side effects experienced by people in the U.S. were headache (15.7%), fever (13.6%), and fatigue (13.5%), ## Severe Side Effects and Complications In addition to a risk of anaphylaxis, the other potentially severe side effects are [myocarditis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/myocarditis-inflammatory-disease-1746163) (inflammation of the heart muscle) and [pericarditis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/pericarditis-symptoms-8605139) (inflammation of the outer lining of the heart). These side effects are mainly seen in males age 12 to 40. Although the exact cause of these is poorly understood, most cases occur within seven days of receiving a second dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. There is also some evidence that vaccination with the Novavax protein subunit vaccine might increase the risk of this side effect. Myocarditis and pericarditis are rare, and occur more often in people infected with COVID than in those who get vaccinated, meaning the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks: - Rate in non-infected people: 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 people - Rate in those who receive the vaccine: 10 to 50 cases per 100,000 people - Rate in those with COVID infection: 150 cases per 100,000 people Moreover, most cases are relatively mild and transient. Myocarditis and pericarditis are characterized by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms accompanied by: - Chest pain or discomfort - A feeling of tightness in the chest - [Shortness of breath](https://www.verywellhealth.com/shortness-of-breath-possible-causes-and-evaluation-2249306) during activity or when lying down - Unusual tiredness - [Heart palpitations](https://www.verywellhealth.com/heart-palpitations-1745232) - Lightheadedness or fainting Symptoms of vaccine-induced myocarditis or pericarditis typically require hospitalization to monitor for rare but potentially deadly complications like [cardiac arrhythmia](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-arrhythmias-signs-and-symptoms-4160572) (irregular heartbeats) and [cardiac arrest](https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-arrest-symptoms-1298734) (in which the heart suddenly stops beating). With that said, most people respond well to rest and medications like [colchicine](https://www.verywellhealth.com/colchicine-to-treat-gout-189559), [steroids](https://www.verywellhealth.com/facts-about-corticosteroids-steroids-188358), or [nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-anti-inflammatory-medication-2548734). ### Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Kill You? Of the small handful of people who experienced cardiac arrest and death after COVID vaccination, a 2024 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that all had underlying risk factors for heart disease-related death independent of COVID-19 vaccination. Among young people who experienced myocarditis or pericarditis after vaccination, no risk of cardiac arrest or death was found. The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.
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