Of the 5 to 20 percent of Americans who contract the influenza virus each year, approximately 36,000 die from complications, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The flu shot may help decrease a person's risk of developing the characteristic symptoms of the flu, such as fever, muscle aches, fatigue and stomach discomfort. Before receiving this vaccine, patients should discuss the potential flu shot dangers with a medical professional.
Severe Allergic Reaction
A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis may occur in certain patients following receipt of this vaccine. The active components of the flu vaccine are grown in eggs, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. Consequently, people who are severely allergic to eggs are at the highest risk of developing an allergic reaction and should not receive this vaccine. Anaphylaxis symptoms develop rapidly and may include weakness, increased heart rate, dizziness, pale skin, hoarseness and wheezing. Patients who develop any of these dangerous side effects after receiving the flu shot require immediate, emergency medical attention.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré Syndrome, or GBS, is a potential danger that may affect one to two of every 1 million people who receive the flu shot, the CDC warns. This side effect of the flu shot affects the central nervous system. People with GBS may develop unusual body sensations, such as numbness, tingling or pain in their extremities, according to MayoClinic.com. Depending upon the severity of nerve damage, certain people with GBS may experience extreme difficulty walking or paralysis. If these side effects develop, they typically emerge within a few weeks following receipt of the flu shot.
Adverse Side Effects
People may develop adverse side effects after receiving the flu shot. Typically, these adverse effects include fever, chills or headache. Mild injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling or pain, may also develop. These adverse side effects are temporary and generally resolve within a day following vaccination. If adverse side effects persist, affected patients should seek care from a medical professional.
