Vaccine Injuries | Next Steps

Vaccine Injuries

The advent of vaccinations has changed the world both in the U.S. and globally. From the eradication of smallpox to the near eradication of polio and whooping cough – all highly contagious – vaccines mean a safer, more promising future for millions. Now, people can even be protected from certain forms of cancer, like cervical and liver cancer from vaccines. Despite these amazing advances, complications and negligence still occur.

Long History of Vaccine Injuries

Though vaccine injury is extremely rare, it does happen. In 1955 about 200 people were paralyzed and ten died after contracting polio from the Salk polio vaccine, certain lots of which contained viruses that had not been inactivated in spite of manufacturers’ adherence to federal government standards. Through the 1970s and 1980s, the number of lawsuits brought against vaccine manufacturers increased dramatically, and manufacturers made large payouts to individuals and families claiming vaccine injury, particularly from the combined diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) immunization. Beginning around 2001, hundreds and then thousands of families began to petition the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP) claiming that their children’s autism resulted from vaccination. In 2021, there have been nearly 8,000 reported deaths due to the COVID-19 vaccines with the U.S. Vaccine Adverse Event System (VAERS) reporting system.

What this history shows is that big pharmaceutical companies are not known for their reliability. They often consider the dollar first and the patient second. New vaccines should be tested well before hitting the market. If you notice that the FDA approved a vaccine that scientists only recently created, it may be wise to give it time – depending on the circumstances and medical advice.

Before You or Your Child is Vaccinated

If it’s time for vaccinations and you have concerns, there are some things to consider before letting a doctor administer vaccinations to yourself or your children:

• Illness – If you or your child has a virus, consider waiting a few days to allow the body to recover before immunizing. Most doctors will see your child or yourself at one appointment, but won’t let you do a walk-in for immunization until after the virus has passed.

• Previous reactions – If you or someone in the family has had a negative reaction to a vaccine, talk with your doctor about it first. There may be alternative vaccines, or your physician may recommend waiting a period of time.

• Side effects – Understanding what to expect after a vaccination can save a parent days of worry. Know what drugs you or your child are getting and all the possible responses. Be alert for the next few days for these reactions.

Perhaps most importantly, however, is that you and your doctor have a good relationship and that you trust his or her advice. You should never see or have your children see a physician who is unable to openly speak with you about vaccinations.

When to Seek Help for Vaccine Injuries

If you believe you or your child has suffered from a vaccine injury, talk to your doctor first. Like anything else, it’s wise to get a second opinion, especially if your doctor fears the repercussions of admitting the vaccine may have caused issues.

Your next step may be to discuss your options with an experienced vaccine injury attorney who understands the complex issue of vaccination from a national perspective. Contact Fiffik Law Group for an injury attorney who will examine your case and determine the next steps of action. Call today for your free consultation.