Important update: Healthcare facilities
CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Learn more
UPDATE
Given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.
UPDATE
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines. More information is available here.

Myocarditis and Pericarditis After mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination

Myocarditis and Pericarditis After mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination
Updated Nov. 3, 2023

CDC and its partners are actively monitoring reports of myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination. Active monitoring includes reviewing data and medical records and evaluating the relationship to COVID-19 vaccination.

Information about CDC’s ongoing study of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination can be found here: Investigating Long-Term Effects of Myocarditis | CDC

Myocarditis and pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination are rare. Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle, and pericarditis is inflammation of the outer lining of the heart. In both cases, the body’s immune system causes inflammation in response to an infection or some other trigger.

Symptoms of myocarditis and pericarditis:

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feelings of having a fast beating, fluttering, or pounding heart

Most patients with myocarditis or pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination responded well to medicine and rest and felt better quickly.

Seek medical care if you or your child have any symptoms of myocarditis or pericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination.

Healthcare Providers: For additional recommendations and clinical guidance, visit Clinical Considerations: Myocarditis after mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines.

Should I Still Get Myself or My Child Vaccinated?

Yes. CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines are the best way to protect you or your child from severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization and death. The benefits of vaccination outweigh any known risks. For more information, please refer to CDC’s Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines in the United States.

If you have concerns about COVID-19 vaccination, talk with your healthcare provider or your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic.

If you have any health problems after vaccination, report them to VAERS.