The Caring of Your Child After Vaccination

     Parents should not overlook vaccination for children from birth to 12 years old. It helps strengthen the immune system to protect against serious diseases. Each type of vaccine is developed using medically inactivated viruses or bacteria that can no longer cause illness. These vaccines stimulate the body to build immunity, protecting against harmful diseases.

Why Do Children Need Vaccines?

     Newborns, especially those under one year of age, do not yet have a fully developed immune system to fight infections. If exposed to dangerous pathogens, they could risk severe illness or even death. The purpose of vaccination is to prevent life-threatening infectious diseases, particularly in children. In addition to reducing the spread of diseases and their serious consequences, vaccines can, in some cases, lead to the eradication of certain diseases.

Why Do Children Develop a Fever After Vaccination?

     A fever following vaccination occurs because the immune system begins responding to the vaccine, working to combat the inactivated pathogens and foreign substances introduced into the body. This immune response may cause a slight fever or increased body temperature. However, once the immune system has completed its response, the body temperature will return to normal.

Recommendations and Symptoms to Monitor After Vaccination

1. Formation of Pustules

     Pustules commonly occur after receiving the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, administered to the left upper arm to prevent tuberculosis. These pustules typically develop 3–4 weeks post-vaccination, swelling and subsiding over another 3–4 weeks before naturally healing. In some cases, the pustule may rupture. It is crucial to maintain proper hygiene to prevent infection by cleaning and keeping the area dry using sterilized water. The pustule will gradually dry up and scab. If swelling occurs in nearby lymph nodes or an abscess develops, medical attention should be sought.

2. Pain, Swelling, Redness, or Warmth at the Injection Site

     Children may become irritable due to discomfort. If there is pain or swelling, applying a cold gel or a cloth soaked in cold water to the affected area immediately can help. Pain relief medication, such as paracetamol, may also be given under medical guidance. Symptoms should subside within 24 hours. If the condition worsens, consult a doctor.

3. Fever or Increased Body Temperature

     This is commonly associated with vaccines for diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus. Parents should use a lukewarm damp cloth to wipe the child's body, particularly around the neck and joints. Fever-reducing medication may be administered as per a doctor’s instructions. If the fever persists beyond two days, a medical consultation is recommended.

4. Cough, Runny Nose, or Rash

     Mild symptoms such as a cough, runny nose, or rash may appear around five days after receiving vaccines for measles or rubella. These symptoms are generally not severe. However, if the child appears lethargic, refuses to eat or drink, or shows unusual fatigue, medical attention should be sought.

5. Seizures

     Seizures following vaccination are usually caused by a high fever rather than the vaccine itself. To prevent this, parents should closely monitor the child’s temperature and take immediate steps to reduce fever through body cooling methods or medication. If a fever is left unchecked, it may trigger a seizure.

Important Considerations for Childhood Vaccination

• Always bring the child’s health record or vaccination booklet to every appointment so the doctor can update records and ensure the vaccination schedule is followed correctly.
• Some vaccines require multiple doses or booster shots for full effectiveness. Parents should ensure their child receives vaccinations as scheduled.
• If the child has a fever on the day of vaccination, it is advisable to postpone the vaccination until the fever subsides.
• If a scheduled vaccination is missed, it should be completed as soon as possible, regardless of the delay—there is no need to restart the series.
• If the child has experienced severe reactions to a previous vaccine, such as seizures, high fever, significant swelling, or hives, parents should inform the doctor before the next vaccination.
• After receiving a vaccine, the child should remain at the healthcare facility for at least 30 minutes for observation to monitor potential allergic reactions.

Ensuring children receive vaccinations from birth to 12 years old is a crucial step in safeguarding their health and protecting them from serious diseases.

Last Updated: March 17, 2022