Side effects are common, but are generally mild, and usually last 24-48 hours. For further information about each vaccine, refer to the following pages:

A rare side effect of mRNA vaccination (Pfizer Comirnaty or Moderna Spikevax) is myocarditis (67 cases per million doses).  This is most common in men under 30 within the first 2 weeks of vaccination, and can cause chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath and fainting.  If you are concerned you have developed this condition, please consult your doctor or attend the emergency department.   Most cases recover well with supportive therapy only.

In order to assist us in monitoring side effects, you will receive a text and questionnaire from SMARTVAX. Please respond to this so that you can tell us if you have any side effects like a sore arm, headache, fever, fatigue, headache, chills, muscle pains, joint pain, or something else. You may use paracetamol for symptom relief.