COVID-19: Is Vaccination Causing Myocarditis and Pericarditis?

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Do you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or a pounding heart? If you or your family have gotten the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, here is the latest information.

The FDA and CDC have confirmed that, as of July 26, 2021, Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) has received 1,194 reports of myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart that holds it in place) in people who have gotten these vaccines. In both cases, the body’s immune system causes inflammation in response to an infection or some other trigger. Myocarditis can affect small or large sections of the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood, which in turn can lead to heart failure. 

Symptoms of myocarditis

According to the CDC, possible symptoms may include: 

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Feelings of having a rapid and strong irregular heartbeat

The symptoms reported were typically within several days after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Since symptoms have occurred more often after the second dose than the first dose, it is important to monitor any odd symptoms you may be feeling after the complete vaccination. 

Who is being affected? 

This case has been in most people younger than 30 years old. According to the CDC, reported cases have occurred predominantly in male adolescents and young adults 16 years of age and older. 

What does the FDA recommend?  

Although the side effects of the Modern and Pfizer vaccine are known, the FDA and CDC still recommend everyone 12 years of age and older to get the vaccine, given the risks of COVID-19. 

Treatment

For suspected cases, the CDC recommends consultation with cardiology for assistance with cardiac evaluation and management. There is no actual treatment for myocarditis, but the CDC confirms that with simple rest and medical care, patients have been recovering quickly. 

Warnings 

Since this new finding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration added a warning to patient and provider fact sheets for the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. This fact sheet indicates a rare risk of heart inflammation. For each vaccine, the fact sheets were revised to include a warning about myocarditis and pericarditis after the second dose and with the onset of symptoms within a few days after receiving the shot. 

Summary 

Given the known risk actors of the new COVID vaccine, it is still recommended to get the vaccine. If you have gotten the vaccine and have experienced any symptoms of myocarditis please make sure to visit your local hospital or clinic.