Long-term complaints after COVID-19 vaccination

Millions of coronavirus vaccinations have been administered in the Netherlands ( RIVM ). The Lareb Side Effects Centre registers and monitors the side effects of the various vaccines. Several side effects are known. Some side effects are common, such as headache, muscle pain, and reactions at the injection site. Other side effects are rare, such as allergic reactions, inflammation of the heart muscle, or the pericardium. Side effects are listed in the vaccine package leaflets.

Lareb has also received reports of complaints not known as side effects of a vaccine. Examples include loss of smell and taste, and long-term symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and problems with memory and concentration. These symptoms also occur in post-COVID. Lareb has conducted research into this. This research shows that there are also patients in other countries who experience long-term symptoms after coronavirus vaccination. More epidemiological, clinical, and immunological research is needed into the relationship between symptoms and coronavirus vaccinations, and into the causes of post-COVID.

Scientific research into complaints following COVID-19 vaccination is getting underway very slowly. It is part of the Yale Listen Study , and an article was published last year regarding clinical and diagnostic characteristics.

People experiencing long-term symptoms after COVID-19 vaccination can contact C-support for advice and support. Nearly 1.300 people have already registered with us.

Common long-term complaints include fatigue, difficulty concentrating and remembering, difficulty processing stimuli, shortness of breath, and headaches. Other complaints are also common. Many people experience multiple complaints simultaneously. View the facts and figures about the registrations of people with complaints after COVID-19 vaccination at C-support.

After you register, a C-support aftercare advisor will discuss your symptoms and their impact on your health, social life, work, and income. We'll determine what's needed to improve your situation and help you find the right healthcare providers. C-support does not provide medical care. For this, you can contact your general practitioner or medical specialist.

Treatments

There are currently no treatments for long-term symptoms after vaccination. The use of paramedical care (occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietitian, speech therapy) may offer support. See how to manage long-term symptoms.

The costs you incur for your care are covered by your own health insurance. Occupational therapy, speech therapy, and dietician services are covered by basic insurance and are deducted from your deductible. Physiotherapy is covered by your supplementary insurance. For questions about reimbursement, please contact your health insurer.

Social and psychological problems

You may be concerned about your long-term symptoms and their impact on your health, work or studies, and social life. With limited energy, it can be difficult to figure out where to turn for help. You can discuss this with an aftercare advisor and make use of our help guide.

Fellow sufferer

Sometimes it can be helpful to get in touch with someone in a similar situation. PostCovid NL has launched a platform where patients, loved ones, and caregivers can find fellow sufferers. Patients with complaints following COVID-19 vaccination can also make use of it. Currently, there is no official patient organization for complaints after vaccination, although one is in the process of being established.

Work and Income

If your long-term complaints make it impossible or less possible to work, this can lead to problems. These can include dealing with colleagues or your employer, difficult conversations with occupational health and safety physicians, or a drop in income. C-support also supports and advises you in these areas. If necessary, we collaborate with occupational health and safety experts and employment lawyers.