How Does SIRVA Differ from Normal Vaccine Reactions? 

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced or are researching something that might’ve gone wrong after a vaccine. Most people tolerate vaccines with minor discomfort at most—a sore arm or a slight fever that vanishes in a day or two. But what if the pain sticks around and turns into something much worse?  

That’s where SIRVA, or Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration, comes into the picture. Unlike typical vaccine reactions, SIRVA results not from the vaccine itself but from how it was administered. 

At Vaccine Injury Pros, I represent people who have suffered vaccine-related injuries, including SIRVA. Based out of Sioux City, Iowa, my firm is part of Moore, Corbett, Moeller & Meis, LLP—one of the Midwest's most established law firms.  

My team handles vaccine injury claims under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), which means the program itself covers your legal fees. I aim to secure compensation for your medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering while you focus on recovery. 

I'm going to explore the differences between a typical vaccine reaction and SIRVA and take a brief look at state laws. 

What Is a Normal Vaccine Reaction?

A vaccine reaction is your body’s natural response to the injection. Most adverse symptoms are mild and short-lived, signaling your immune system is doing its job. Here are some common examples: 

• Injection site reactions: Redness, mild swelling, or soreness at the puncture site. 

• Fever or chills: Minor temperature increases for a day or two. 

• Fatigue: Feeling tired or sluggish after getting vaccinated. 

• Muscle aches or mild joint pain. 

These side effects are well-documented and expected. They tend to clear up quickly, requiring no medical intervention. Importantly, these reactions are related to your body’s immune response rather than how the vaccine was injected. Still, if you are concerned, a call to your healthcare professional is a good idea.

What Is SIRVA and How Is It Different?

SIRVA isn’t your standard post-vaccine soreness. It’s a rare but serious condition caused by improper vaccine administration or your body's unusual response to the vaccine at the shoulder. This commonly happens when the shot is injected too high on the arm or too deep into the shoulder joint rather than into the muscle. Or sometimes, it just happens. 

Unlike typical vaccine reactions that last a few days, SIRVA symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years. Common symptoms include: 

• Severe, persistent shoulder pain 

• Stiffness or limited range of motion 

• Weakness in the affected arm 

• Sometimes, nerve damage or soft tissue damage 

SIRVA is thought to be a mechanical injury, not an immune response, with or without a reaction caused by the vaccine. It often requires medical treatment like physical therapy, steroid injections, or even surgery. If left untreated, patients may experience long-term complications, including chronic pain or shoulder dysfunction. 

Recognizing the Signs of SIRVA

If you have lingering shoulder pain or mobility issues after a vaccine, you should see a healthcare professional. Diagnosing SIRVA often involves a thorough review of your medical history and imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound.

Something as preventable as an improperly administered shot can cause prolonged suffering. The sooner it’s addressed, the better your chances of recovery—and obtaining any compensation you may be entitled to. 

Laws Governing Vaccine Injuries

States do not have laws for most vaccine injury claims. Instead, the processes under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) apply. What does that mean for someone like you?  

If you’ve suffered from SIRVA or another vaccine-related injury, you can file for compensation through VICP rather than pursuing a traditional lawsuit. 

Key things to know about vaccine injuries and legal claims: 

What the VICP Covers 

The VICP is a federal program that provides compensation for individuals injured by covered vaccines. SIRVA is explicitly listed as a compensable injury if symptoms persist for at least six months or result in surgery. 

No-Fault Compensation 

The VICP operates on a no-fault basis, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence by the healthcare provider to qualify. The program provides financial assistance for medical expenses (not covered by insurance), lost income, and pain and suffering. If you hire a lawyer to represent you, the program will pay the legal fees and expenses, not you.

Filing Deadlines 

If you're considering filing a claim, there are important timelines you must meet. For SIRVA, the general rule is you must file your claim within three years from the onset of symptoms. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation. 

While the VICP is a national program, I handle cases nationwide from my home base here in Sioux City, Iowa. Filing claims under the VICP requires adherence to strict federal regulations, which is why you need an attorney to handle the process. 

Vaccine Injury Lawyer in Sioux City, Iowa 

At Vaccine Injury Pros, part of the prestigious Moore, Corbett, Moeller & Meis, LLP, I represent people in Sioux City, Iowa, and nationwide in vaccine injury cases. With a diverse legal practice and access to significant resources, I can handle even the most challenging cases involving SIRVA and other vaccine injuries.

My team is committed to earning your trust and achieving the best outcome for your situation. Call today to start your claim process.