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A P R I L 2021 ME S S E NG E R
VACCINE SAFETY How do we know the vaccine is safe when it was developed so quickly? The production and approval of COVID-19 vaccines was not rushed. Instead, it was prioritized. Around the world, financial supports, open and transparent sharing of information amongst researchers, and adjustments in regulatory processes led to the relatively fast development of successful COVID-19 vaccines. Usually Health Canada reviews vaccine submissions after all study results are available; this can take up to a year. An interim order approved by the federal Minister of Health provided the flexibility to expedite the review and authorization of vaccines. This allowed manufacturers to submit study data to Health Canada as it became available, shortening the time needed for the review process. Review of the data from the clinical trials and of the manufacturing processes allows Health Canada to confirm that there are no significant safety concerns and that the vaccine will protect against disease. The review also assesses whether the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks, and whether the vaccine is manufactured to high quality standards. In order to support the independent review process for COVID-19 vaccines, Health Canada, dedicated more resources to the review process than usual and global partnerships have expedited the process. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have allergies or had a reaction to a vaccine in the past? Individuals who have had a serious allergic reaction to another vaccine, drug or food should talk to their health care provider before receiving the vaccine. There are two reasons you cannot get a COVID-19 vaccine (also known as a contraindication): • Known severe hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine (like polyethylene glycol - PEG - which is common in laxatives). • Anaphylaxis to a previous dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. Most people with allergies (e.g., to food, medication or substances not included in the vaccine) or those who have had a previous adverse reaction following immunization will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. What are the expected side effects from the vaccine? Common short-term side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include: • Pain at the injection site lasting one to two days • Fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and joint pain lasting approximately one day These short-term mild or moderate side effects are very common to many vaccines and may affect more than 10 per cent of people. Some side effects, including fever, are more frequent after the second dose. It is important to note that the common short-term side effects are not necessarily bad. Your immune system is functioning and building the necessary protections for you against this virus. Over-the-counter pain or fever medication may be considered for the management of short-term side effects if they occur after immunization. No serious safety concerns have been identified in clinical trials.
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