You asked

What should I do if I think my child is having a bad reaction to a vaccine?

In most cases, having vaccinations is perfectly safe. However, in a very small number of cases, people have a bad reaction to a vaccine. In an even smaller number of cases, your child may be allergic to the vaccine.

The first thing you should do is assess your child’s symptoms. Allergic reactions usually include hives or a rash, breathing difficulties or becoming weak, pale or unconscious. This could mean that your child is having an anaphylactic or allergic reaction, that can be life threatening. Seeking immediate medical care is advised.

Another very rare reaction is for your baby or toddler to have a disorder that causes their platelets (cells in the blood) to thin, leaving your child susceptible to bleeding, bruising and bloody stools or urine. This is another case where you should contact your doctor immediately.

A very high fever shortly after a vaccination is another cause for concern, and should your child react this way, it’s best to take him or her to the emergency room.
Common reactions to vaccines that usually aren’t serious are low grade fever, pain, vomiting, redness or fussiness, and most of these can be treated by giving your child ibuprofen or paracetamol.

While it’s true that most children will not have a bad reaction, or any reaction at all, to vaccinations, if you are worried, it’s best to be cautious, and consult your doctor.

More questions

Your child's baby teeth are still very important as they need them to be able to chew food and speak clearly.
A cold bath can actually do more harm than good to a feverish child.
Many children have a mild reaction to the MMR vaccine – it’s not usually full-blown measles though, and it’s usually not serious. There are a few things to watch out for though...
Injections are necessary - the thing is to just have them and then get on with it. If needs be, have your child’s favourite toy or something else that will distract him while he has his shot.
Antibiotics do not kill viruses, such as the common cold, and by over using antibiotics, particularly when they aren’t necessary, you are weakening your child's future defences! 
In general, chewable medicines are only designed for children two years and older, who are adept at eating solid foods.
Giving any child aspirin could contribute to them getting a serious illness known as Reye’s Syndrome.
As a parent you should understand the risks associated with various different types of medication
Both ibuprofen and paracetamol are effective pain and fever treatment options for babies and children.
Choosing between a vaporiser and a humidifier is a personal choice but both help to make children feel better

Latest

Trending