What are the side effects of Covaxin and how long do they last

✅Covaxin side effects include fever, fatigue, headache, and pain at the injection site. These typically last 1-2 days, ensuring quick recovery.


Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech, is one of the vaccines used to combat COVID-19 in India. Like all vaccines, Covaxin can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the common and less common side effects of Covaxin, and discuss how long these side effects typically last. This information will help you understand what to expect after receiving the Covaxin vaccine.

Common Side Effects of Covaxin

The most common side effects reported for Covaxin are similar to those of other vaccines and include:

  • Pain at the injection site
  • Swelling at the injection site
  • Redness at the injection site
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Chills
  • Joint pain
  • Nausea

These side effects are generally mild and usually resolve within a few days. Most people find that these symptoms improve within 1-3 days after vaccination.

Less Common Side Effects

Less common but possible side effects include:

  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Allergic reactions
  • Rash
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness or fainting

These side effects are rare, but if they occur, they should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare but require immediate medical attention.

Duration of Side Effects

The duration of side effects can vary from person to person. However, most side effects from Covaxin are short-lived. Here’s a general timeline for how long you can expect the side effects to last:

  • Injection site reactions: Usually 1-3 days
  • Fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, nausea: Typically 1-2 days
  • Less common side effects: Can last a bit longer but should be monitored closely

If any side effects persist beyond a week or if they become severe, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Managing Side Effects

Here are some tips to help manage mild side effects:

  • Apply a cool, wet cloth to the injection site to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol for fever and pain relief.
  • Stay hydrated and rest as much as possible.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for a couple of days after vaccination.

In conclusion, while Covaxin, like all vaccines, can cause side effects, they are typically mild and short-lived. Being aware of what to expect and how to manage these side effects can help make the vaccination experience more comfortable.

Common short-term side effects of Covaxin and their duration

When it comes to Covaxin, like any other vaccine, there are common short-term side effects that recipients may experience. It’s essential to be aware of these side effects to know what to expect after getting vaccinated.

Here are some of the common short-term side effects of Covaxin and their duration:

  • Pain at the injection site: This is a frequently reported side effect after receiving Covaxin. The pain is usually mild to moderate and resolves on its own within a few days.
  • Redness or swelling at the injection site: Some individuals may experience redness or swelling at the injection site. This typically goes away within a day or two.
  • Low-grade fever: A mild fever is a common side effect of Covaxin. It usually occurs within a day or two of getting the vaccine and resolves within a couple of days.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another common side effect. It may last for a few days before resolving.
  • Headache: Some people may experience mild to moderate headaches after receiving Covaxin. Headaches usually go away on their own within a day or two.

It’s important to note that these side effects are generally mild and temporary. They are a sign that the body is building protection against the virus. If the side effects persist or worsen over time, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Most individuals who experience these short-term side effects of Covaxin find relief with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Remember that side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms.

Rare and severe side effects associated with Covaxin

When it comes to Covaxin, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech in India, it is crucial to understand the potential side effects that may arise post-vaccination. While the majority of individuals experience mild side effects that subside within a few days, there have been reports of rare and severe adverse reactions in some cases.

It is essential to note that the occurrence of these side effects is extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. However, being aware of these severe side effects can help individuals make informed decisions and seek prompt medical attention if necessary.

Examples of rare and severe side effects associated with Covaxin:

  • Guillain-Barré Syndrome: This is a neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the nerves. While extremely rare, there have been a few reported cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome following Covaxin vaccination.
  • Myocarditis or Pericarditis: Inflammation of the heart or the lining around the heart has been reported as a rare side effect of Covaxin, particularly in young males after the second dose.
  • Thrombosis: Although rare, cases of blood clot formation post-Covaxin vaccination have been reported. It is essential to watch out for symptoms such as severe headache, abdominal pain, leg swelling, or shortness of breath.

While these severe side effects are concerning, it is important to remember that they occur in a very small number of individuals. The overall safety profile of Covaxin remains favorable, and the vaccine continues to play a crucial role in controlling the spread of COVID-19 in India and globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common side effects of Covaxin?

The common side effects of Covaxin include pain at the injection site, fever, fatigue, headache, body aches, and nausea.

2. How long do the side effects of Covaxin typically last?

The side effects of Covaxin usually last for 1-2 days and resolve on their own without any specific treatment.

3. Are there any severe side effects associated with Covaxin?

Severe side effects of Covaxin are rare, but in some cases, allergic reactions or anaphylaxis can occur. It is important to seek medical help if you experience any severe symptoms.

4. Can I take painkillers to manage the side effects of Covaxin?

It is generally safe to take over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol to manage the side effects of Covaxin. However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

5. Should I be concerned about long-term side effects of Covaxin?

Based on clinical trials and real-world data, Covaxin has been shown to have a good safety profile with no significant long-term side effects reported so far.

6. Can Covaxin cause blood clots or other serious complications?

There is currently no evidence to suggest that Covaxin can cause blood clots or other serious complications. The benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks associated with rare adverse events.

Key Points about Covaxin
Covaxin is an inactivated virus-based COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech in India.
It has been granted emergency use authorization in several countries for vaccination against COVID-19.
The recommended interval between two doses of Covaxin is 4-6 weeks.
Covaxin has shown efficacy against symptomatic and severe cases of COVID-19 in clinical trials.
It is important to get vaccinated with Covaxin to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

Leave your comments below if you have any more questions about Covaxin or check out our other articles for more information on COVID-19 vaccines.

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