The time is coming nearer for long term care residents to have the option of being vaccinated against COVID-19, and it is important to know what to keep an eye out for once it is received. A recent recommendation from the FDA says signs of Bell’s palsy should be on the list to watch out for.

Bell’s palsy causes temporary weakness or paralysis of muscles in the face. The condition typically occurs when the nerve controlling facial muscles gets inflamed, swollen, or compressed. While the FDA noted that the condition is not necessarily considered a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine, four cases were found in each of Moderna’s and Pfizer’s trials, warranting close monitoring of this condition in vaccine recipients. There is not yet enough data to link the cases directly to the shots, but several experts have said the condition merits monitoring as vaccines are administered.

Stay the course, stay strong, stay well, mask up, and stay tuned!