H1N1 vaccine causes nearly 500 adverse reactions

Nearly 500 patients who have received the H1N1 vaccine have suffered an adverse reaction, according to the Irish Medicines Board (IMB).

As of December 2009, 483 adverse reactions have been recorded in patients who have been given the swine flu vaccine. The IMB says that these figures are consistent with the expected pattern of adverse effects, considering the total number of people who have received the vaccine since it was developed.

According to the HSE, around 400,000 people have received the vaccine to date, including 50,000 healthcare workers.

Some of the most common adverse reactions that have been reported include localised redness and swelling, dizziness, headaches and flu-like symptoms.