Can a Vaccine Cause Transverse Myelitis? What You Need to Know

Vaccines provide significant benefits for individuals and the greater population in the United States. However, in rare cases, vaccines can cause serious and permanent injuries, such as transverse myelitis.

Transverse myelitis is a neurological disorder triggered by inflammation in the spinal cord. In this article, we’ll explain how a vaccine can cause transverse myelitis, the symptoms to watch for, and how you may be eligible for compensation through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse myelitis (TM) is a neurological condition caused by inflammation of the spinal cord. When the spinal cord becomes inflamed, the protective insulation around the nerve cells, called myelin, begins to break down.

This inflammation disrupts communication between the nerves in the spinal cord and the rest of the body. As a result, nerve signals may be delayed or blocked. Common symptoms of transverse myelitis include numbness, weakness, and even paralysis. While TM is often triggered by viral or bacterial infections, it can also, in rare cases, be caused by a vaccine.

Symptoms of Transverse Myelitis After Vaccination

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common symptoms of transverse myelitis include:

• Pain: Sudden lower back pain or sharp pain shooting down the legs, arms, chest, or abdomen. Pain location depends on where the spinal cord is inflamed.

• Abnormal sensations: Numbness, tingling, coldness, burning sensations, or increased sensitivity to touch or temperatures in the extremities, chest, or abdomen.

• Weakness in the arms and legs: Many patients notice heaviness or difficulty walking. In severe cases, transverse myelitis can lead to partial or complete paralysis.

• Incontinence: Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel movements.

If you experience any of these symptoms after receiving a vaccine, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms typically develop within a few days to three months after vaccination. While most patients experience only one episode of TM, some may have recurring symptoms and long-term nerve disruptions. Although many recover fully, others may face permanent impairments affecting their independence and ability to work.

Which Vaccines Have Been Linked to Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse myelitis has been associated with several vaccines, including:

• Influenza (flu) vaccines

• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine

• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine

• Hepatitis B vaccine

Transverse myelitis is considered an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues. Vaccines, which stimulate immune responses, may sometimes trigger T-cells that attack the myelin sheath, leading to inflammation and nerve damage.

Treatment Options for Transverse Myelitis

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, treatment for transverse myelitis may include:

• Intravenous (IV) Steroids: High-dose steroids are often used for 3–5 days to reduce spinal inflammation.

• Plasma Exchange (PLEX) Therapy: If steroids are ineffective, plasma exchange therapy may help, especially when started early.

• Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to manage pain, muscle spasms, and other neurological symptoms.

• Physical and Occupational Therapy: Rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength, mobility, and daily function.

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the best outcomes.

Compensation for Vaccine-Related Transverse Myelitis

If you developed transverse myelitis after vaccination and your symptoms lasted longer than six months, you may be eligible for compensation through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

The VICP is a federal program that compensates individuals for vaccine-related injuries without requiring them to sue a healthcare provider or pharmaceutical company. To qualify, you must:

• Have received a covered vaccine listed by the VICP

• File a petition within three years of symptom onset

Hiring a vaccine injury lawyer is at no cost to you—the VICP pays for your attorney’s fees separately.

At Shannon Law Group, P.C., we have successfully helped many clients secure compensation for vaccine injuries, including cases involving transverse myelitis.

Injured by a Vaccine? We Can Help.

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms after a vaccination, we’re here to help. Our experienced vaccine injury attorneys are ready to review your case and guide you through the VICP process.

To schedule your free consultation, call us at (312) 578-9501 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page.

There’s no risk—and you deserve answers.