Immunizations - Pneumococcal Pneumonia

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A small percentage of people do not develop immunity, even after a vaccine has been given repeatedly. A more potent vaccine is proving to be effective for these people; it loses its effect after 5 years in about one-third of those who receive it.

Side Effects of Hepatitis B Vaccine

Soreness. Soreness at the injection site is the most common side effect.

Nerve Inflammation. There have been reports of nerve inflammation after vaccinations for hepatitis B, and some questions about multiple sclerosis. However, studies and reviews have found no real evidence linking the vaccine to a number of disorders.

Due to even the small theoretical risk of nerve damage in infants, some groups oppose the vaccination in children who are not in high-risk groups. However, this risk must be balanced against the significant reduction in chronic hepatitis and liver cancer cases due to this vaccine, especially around the world. [For more information see In-Depth Report #59: Hepatitis.]

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Review Date: 10/12/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).