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Vaccine safety

A close up of a scientist wearing blue latex gloves.

Before any vaccine is approved for use by Health Canada, it must go through in-depth testing to prove it is safe and that it works. Even after a vaccine is approved for use, its safety is continuously monitored. 

A Brown woman wearing a mask with blue whales on it sitting with a band aid on her arm after receiving a vaccine.

Vaccines are among the safest medical products available. Vaccine side effects are usually mild (like a sore arm or mild fever) and go away in a few days. Serious side effects are very rare.

A group of scientists in a lab, representing a mix of genders.

The ingredients in vaccines are important for keeping them safe and effective. Each ingredient is used only in very small amounts, and only necessary ingredients are included. The ingredients are tested during safety studies.

A white woman talking with a nurse after getting a vaccine.

It is safe for children to receive multiple vaccines during one visit. This helps protect them from serious diseases early in life when they are most at risk of becoming seriously ill.

FAQ

How do we know vaccines are safe?
Is it safe for my child to get more than one vaccine at the same time?
Are the ingredients in vaccines safe?