The result of a confusing back-and-forth in late September that the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer and Biotech was approved by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be given as a booster shot to people that met certain criteria.

First, it has to be six months since an individual received their second vaccine in the series. Secondly, they have to be over the age of 65 or be over 50 and have pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, those who work in high-risk environments like healthcare, nursing homes, teachers, or retail workers also may get the third shot.

But as those of us who went through some unpleasant side effects from especially the second COVID-19 vaccination, who do clinical trials show about side effects from the third shot?

Carthage Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at these side effects so you know what you might be able to expect if you receive a booster shot.

Common Side Effects Remain

The most commonly reported side effects were similar to the first two injections. They include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and chills.

Clinical trials also found that side effects were more pronounced in those under the age of 55 as compared to 55 and older. It’s believed that’s due to younger people having a greater immune response.

Less Severe Side Effects Than the Second Shot

In potentially encouraging news for those who were knocked out of commission for a day or two after their second shot, clinical trials shows that side effects were “substantially lower” after the third dose of the vaccine than the first or—especially—second dose of the series. This was according to results in Israel, so the data isn’t as widespread.

Regardless, we should know more once people start receiving the third dose of the vaccine more routinely.

To learn more about Carthage Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://carthage-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.