Vaccine Reactions

[ConcernedAuntie]

Have just been reading some threads about reactions to the vaccines. Some people don't seem to have any after-effects whereas others feel quite unwell. Both DH and I have had our first, him Pfizer, me AstraZeneca, with no reactions, but neighbours have reported feeling a bit ropey.

It got me to wondering if this is something to do with an individuals existing immune system? Would a weak immune system promote a stronger reaction as it has more work to do, or does a stronger immune system react more robustly to a new threat being introduced into our bodies?

There is probably nothing in it and just a question of luck, but I just wondered if any of the clever people on here had any thoughts/ information on the matter.

I think the research behind and the production of these vaccines has been little short of a miracle.

Hope people understand what I am getting at - not very good at explaining what I mean.

I'm not sure it means anything tbh.

My mum had no reaction. Very fit and healthy.

My dad had no reaction. Currently on chemo so his immune system is a bit fucked.

Thanks @Iremembertheelderlykoreanlady. That's very interesting. Your Mum and Dad seem to be at opposite ends of the scale immune system-wise. Looks like it could be purely down to chance.

Hope you Dad's treatment goes well.

Among the people I know the strongest reactions were the youngest or those who had previously had covid. DS22 and his friends (NHS, Med students) all had quite strong reactions.

DH and me and all our over 60+ friends had zero apart from a sore arm. I have auto immune disease.

The opposite if anything is true.

The "reactions" are not due to the vaccine, but due to your immune system. So if you DO have side effects, rest assured that you are witnessing your body's defences kicking into action.

That's not to say those who DON'T have side effects have had a weak/no reaction to the vaccine - people's immune systems react in different ways - just look at the differences in people when a cold goes around - some are sneezing furiously, while others barely blow their nose.

I have heard at least anecdotaly that people who have had covid have had stronger reactions which I suppose makes sense as your body recognizes the virus in the vaccine already and springs into action.

I am immunosuppresant a very low immune system. I recieved the Oxford jab as I am clinically vunerable. I had no reaction what so ever.