A health worker in New York City suffered a “significant allergic reaction” to a COVID-19 vaccine – the first “serious side effect” of the shot in the Big Apple – and is in stable condition, officials said Wednesday.
“With more than 30,000 COVID-19 vaccinations administered in New York City, we received one report of a serious adverse reaction in a health professional,” said the city’s health department.
“Vaccines have side effects and allergic reactions – although uncommon – are common,” the department added in a statement.
“We also know that based on clinical studies and adverse event reports in other jurisdictions, reactions such as these are rare, but have been reported with the Pfizer vaccine.”
The unidentified health worker is reportedly in stable condition after receiving treatment for the reaction.
The health department said it is closely following reports of more serious side effects in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“This is the first serious side effect we’ve experienced in New York City,” he said.
“We will continue to distribute the coronavirus vaccine to ensure health care workers, nursing home workers and residents are protected from COVID-19.”
Health officials did not disclose which vaccination the employee received.