Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration: Case Series of an Emerging Occupational Health Concern

Abstract

Background: Shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) is an increasingly recognized complication of improper vaccine administration. Due to the growing number of mandatory workplace vaccination programs, especially for annual influenza vaccine, it is essential that occupational health providers are aware of this condition to improve prevention and/or treatment of this condition when it arises. Therefore, we describe the clinical presentation and course of treatment of five cases of SIRVA that were seen in an employer-based Occupational Health Services Clinic (OHS) after mandatory influenza vaccine administration.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed for five cases of SIRVA from 2017 to 2019.

Findings: Five cases met clinical definition of SIRVA as defined by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. All cases were of similar characteristics including gender, age range, and body mass index (BMI). All were treated using multiple modalities including medication, physical therapy, and modified work with eventual resolution of symptoms and full return to work.

Conclusions/application to practice: Awareness of SIRVA is necessary in any occupational setting where vaccines are routinely administered. Avoidance of SIRVA by adhering to proper vaccination technique is crucial, as is awareness of how to recognize and manage the condition in affected employees to limit long-term impairment.

Keywords: Healthy People 2020; absenteeism; disability case management; health promotion; immunizations; injury; occupational injuries; shoulder; vaccine.