Vaccines are one of the most significant achievements in modern medicine, protecting individuals from life-threatening illnesses and contributing to global public health. They undergo rigorous testing and regulation to ensure safety and efficacy before being made available to the public. However, even “safe” vaccines—those with strong safety records—can, in rare cases, cause injuries. For those who experience these rare adverse effects, the consequences can be life-altering.
How Can a “Safe” Vaccine Cause Injury?
No medical treatment is entirely without risk, and vaccines are no exception. The term "safe" refers to the fact that the vast majority of people can receive vaccines without any serious side effects. However, rare complications can still occur due to individual immune responses, pre-existing conditions, or even errors during administration.
One common injury linked to vaccines is Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA). SIRVA can occur when a vaccine is improperly injected too high or too deep into the shoulder joint, causing inflammation, pain, and limited mobility. Although this injury is not caused by the vaccine itself but rather by its administration, it highlights the potential risks associated with routine vaccinations. The most common injuries are bursitis, tendonitis and tears in the rotator cuff.
Another example is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder linked to certain vaccines, such as the influenza vaccine. GBS causes the immune system to attack the body’s nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. It is commonly associated with numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Most often the numbness ascends bilaterally from the feet through the legs and into the chest.
Addressing Vaccine Injuries
Acknowledging that a vaccine can cause injury doesn’t negate its overall safety or importance. It’s crucial to strike a balance between recognizing the rare risks and promoting the widespread benefits of vaccination. For those affected by vaccine-related injuries, the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) offers a path to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Navigating a vaccine injury claim through the VICP is complex and requires extensive documentation, medical records, and legal expertise. Consulting a vaccine injury attorney can make all the difference in successfully filing a claim. At Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates, we specialize in helping individuals pursue compensation for injuries caused by vaccines, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Conclusion
Vaccines save millions of lives every year, but even “safe” vaccines can occasionally lead to injuries. If you or a loved one has experienced an adverse reaction, you deserve support and guidance. Contact Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates to learn how we can help you seek justice and compensation.