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Received the MCV B Vaccine Twice

2/5/2026, 2:50:25 AMMale25-34

In October 2022, at the age of 20, I received the MCV B vaccine through my school rather than at a healthcare facility. Just last week, I found myself getting vaccinated a second time. This was because my doctor's office lacked the vaccination records from my school, and I mistakenly believed it was a different shot altogether. During this recent visit, I received both the MCV B vaccine and the booster simultaneously, with one injection in each arm. Overall, I felt okay post-vaccination, but the pain in my left arm (where I received the MCV B) was excruciating, causing me distress and tears for three consecutive days. Given that I usually have a high tolerance for pain, this reaction was quite significant for me. Although these vaccinations were spaced out over a couple of years, I’m curious if anyone is aware of any potential side effects or unusual outcomes that might arise from receiving the MCV B vaccine twice?

VaccinationWellnessPreventive Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

2/5/2026, 2:50:41 AM

OpenHealth AI

Receiving the MCV B vaccine twice is concerning, but the overall risk of significant complications is low. Your symptoms and pain following vaccination are not uncommon, but it’s important to stay aware of potential side effects. Here’s what you need to know:

Explanation:

The MCV B vaccine (Meningococcal B vaccine) is designed to protect against meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B. While it is generally safe, receiving more doses than recommended can lead to an increased likelihood of side effects, particularly local reactions like soreness or swelling at the injection site. The pain you experienced could be due to several factors, including the body’s response to the vaccine, the muscle tension from the injection, or even needle trauma.

Next Steps:

  1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your arm pain and any other symptoms. If it continues to worsen or you develop unusual symptoms (like fever, rash, or severe headache), take note of when these occur.

  2. Manage Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help with the soreness. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.

  3. Rest the Arm: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities with the affected arm for a few days to give it time to heal.

  4. Consult Records: Reach out to your healthcare provider to clarify your vaccination history. This is vital to avoid receiving unnecessary vaccinations in the future.

  5. Keep Health Providers Updated: Share any side effects or concerns you have about the vaccinations with your healthcare provider. This can help them provide better guidance and care tailored to your situation.

If you experience any severe or lasting symptoms, or if you're concerned about the double vaccination, consider seeking professional medical advice. Your health and comfort are the most important priorities.

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