Why getting boosted is a pain in the arm

Boosted: Viral immunologist, Associate Professor Nathan Bartlett from the University of Newcastle and HMRI, explained why we might be getting a sore armpit and swollen chest after a COVID-19 vaccine. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

A SORE, swollen armpit and upper chest area after having the COVID vaccine booster - a phenomena dubbed by some as "Pfizer boob" - has been flagged as one of the most common "adverse events" reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

In its first vaccine safety report of the year, the TGA said the majority of about 600 "suspected" adverse events reported after a third dose or booster was swollen lymph nodes - also known as lymphadenopathy.