COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects Are Associated with Antibody Response

As with any vaccine, the COVID-19 vaccine led to some common side effects. However, the severity of these side effects varies by individual. In a recent study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers looked at the association between vaccine side effects and antibody response, finding that more severe side effects were associated with a more significant antibody response.

In this study, investigators used participants in the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) and the Collaborative Cohort of Cohorts for COVID-19 Research (C4R) study. Participants were only included if they received two mRNA vaccine doses two weeks before blood spot collection.

Researchers collected data from 928 participants and divided symptoms into systemic and local symptoms. Systemic symptoms included fever, chills, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. Local symptoms included injection site pain and rash. Using a microsphere immunoassay, IgG antibodies were measured.

Approximately 48% of participants reported systemic symptoms, while 12% reported that they only experienced local symptoms. An additional 40% of the participants stated that they had no symptoms.

After analyzing the data, researchers found that “antibody reactivity was observed in 365 asymptomatic participants (98%), 108 participants (99%) with only local symptoms, and 444 participants (99%) with systemic symptoms (P = .08). In adjusted models, systemic symptoms were associated with greater antibody response, although associations were attenuated with sequential adjustment for potential confounders. Similar results were obtained with the exclusion of participants with prior COVID-19 infection.”

Overall, the researchers concluded that systemic symptoms correlated with a more significant antibody response. This information can further assure patients who are hesitant about vaccination side effects. Providers should also share that these side effects are temporary and should resolve within a few days of vaccination. The COVID-19 vaccine provides additional protection against an otherwise deadly virus regardless of side effects.

Future research may look at the underlying mechanisms of vaccine response, and investigators may look for ways to predict and analyze the immune response. While additional research is necessary, to date, vaccinations are the best way to prevent infection, reduce disease spread, and minimize unfavorable outcomes.