During the COVID-19 outbreak, most parents were concerned about their children receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, which began to be recommended for children in the form of mRNA vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna), due to fears of complications after vaccination, specifically myocarditis and pericarditis. These conditions are mostly found in adolescents and occur more frequently in males than females, although the number of cases is small and the side effects are generally not severe.
Myocarditis and Pericarditis Occur Infrequently
Only a very small number of children may experience side effects severe enough to require hospitalization due to myocarditis and pericarditis. The exact number of children who have died or have long-term effects on the heart muscle is still unclear.
Recent reports may increase parental concern, but considering the necessity, benefits, and risks, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in the United States and many other countries still recommend vaccinating children. In February 2022, vaccination began for children aged 5-11 years to increase hope for stopping the spread of this disease.
Symptoms and Treatment of Myocarditis and Pericarditis
If myocarditis and/or pericarditis is suspected in a child after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, parents can observe the following symptoms:
- Chest pain, especially on the left side
- Palpitations
- Difficulty breathing and possible chest pain when breathing
- Easy fatigue
- Headache, dizziness
- Fainting or feeling lightheaded
- Nausea, vomiting
However, many children do not show these symptoms or have only mild symptoms. To date, the exact incidence of myocarditis or pericarditis in children after receiving this type of vaccine (mRNA), including viral vector COVID-19 vaccines (such as AstraZeneca), remains unknown.
Therefore, after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, if any abnormalities are observed, parents should promptly bring their child for examination to diagnose the cause and proceed with treatment.
