Immunization Reactions
- A reaction to a recent immunization.
Home care advice
- Vaccine Injection Site Reactions: Some pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site are normal. They mean the vaccine is working. Redness does not mean there's any infection.
- For redness and pain, apply a heating pad or a warm, wet washcloth to the area for up to 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.
- Fever with Vaccines: Fever with vaccines is normal, and harmless. Fever with most vaccines begins within 12 hours and lasts 1 to 2 days.
- Encourage cool fluids in unlimited amounts. Dress in normal clothing. For shivering or the chills, use a blanket until it stops. Do not use acetaminophen unless fever reaches above 102° F (39° C) to treat discomfort.
- Do not give fever or pain medicine before children get a vaccine. Fevers help the body's immune system build antibodies.
- Tiredness: Encourage your child to rest or even sleep.
- Poor Appetite or Nausea: Drink extra fluids, stay well hydrated.
- Chills: Wrap your child in a blanket.
- Muscle Aches: Take a warm bath.
- Fussiness: Younger children may be more fussy than normal. They need extra holding and comforting.
When to call the office
- Fever last over 3 days.
- Redness becomes larger than 2 inches (5 cm).
- Redness gets worse after 3 days.
- Your child becomes worse.