Parents need to remember this

Pain and swelling at the injection site are common reactions to vaccines OVID-19 uses mRNA technology such as Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech. Some other less common symptoms also appear after vaccination such as rash, itching … This is known as a reaction to the COVID vaccine in the arm, or “COVID arm” for short.

In fact, this phenomenon is not uncommon after vaccination with any vaccine for both children and adults. Pain and swelling at the injection site are common post-vaccination reactions, known as mild side effects or undesirable reactions.

Some studies of people experiencing this have shown that “COVID arm” symptoms usually appear about 7 days after the first shot and 2 days after the second shot in some people. The symptom of “COVID arm” is thought to be an overreaction of the immune system, indicating that the body’s immune cells are reacting to the muscle cells that have absorbed the vaccine mRNA. The effect of vaccines against COVID-19 mRNA helps the body make a protein, called protein S.

Meanwhile, in some cases, it causes the immune system to identify it as an infection that needs to be eliminated, thus leading to an overreaction of the immune system that causes signs of symptoms.” COVID arm”.

Symptoms of the “COVID arm”

• Itching, possibly intense itching
• A red/or discolored rash around the injection site of varying sizes. In some cases, the rash may spread to the hands or fingers
• Swelling
• Pain
• The skin at the injection site feels warm to the touch
• Appearance of hard lumps under the skin at the injection site

How to handle?

• Symptoms of ‘COVID Arm’ usually last 3 to 5 days. The condition will not progress to a life-threatening or serious allergic reaction. However, it can still be uncomfortable and annoying for the person who encounters it.
• An antihistamine may be used to relieve itching, or acetaminophen or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to reduce swelling and pain. Families should consult a doctor before use.
• To relieve pain and discomfort at the injection site: Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth to the area. Use or exercise for arms.
• Drink a lot of water.
• Wear light clothes, with clothes that do not cause heat.