Vaccines are developed to help build our immune systems to fight against certain infections, however like all medicines, they have side affects.
Among other side effects, hives have recently been linked to the Tdap vaccine, an immunization that is recommended by the CDC to be administered to preteens at ages 11 and 12.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine
The Tdap vaccine is supposed to protect people from three diseases:
- Tetanus
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis
These three diseases are all caused by bacteria and can lead to very serious health complications. Accordingly, the CDC recommends receiving this vaccine at some point in our lives.
Nevertheless, adverse reactions have been reported after receiving the shot.
Side Effects Related to Tetanus Shot
The most common side effect is pain at the injection site.
Other side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Numbness in the area the tetanus shot was given
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Severe body chills
- Fever
- Hives
Severe swelling of the arm has been reported in 1 out of 100 people receiving either the Td or Tdap and about 1 in 250 adults who received the Tdap vaccine develop a fever of 102 or higher.
People may also experience allergic reactions to the tetanus shot such as:
- Skin rashes
- Hives
- Itching on the hands and legs
- Swelling
If you are experiencing these side effects, it is important to be checked by your health care professional as this can cause serious risks regarding your long-term health.
