Vaccinations (also called immunizations) help protect your child from getting certain diseases that are spread from person to person (infectious diseases). They also help reduce the spread of a disease to prevent a sudden outbreak of the disease, which is called an epidemic. Sometimes a vaccine doesn't completely prevent the disease. But it will make the disease much less serious if your child does get it.
Some vaccines are given only one time. Others are given in several doses over time. Most are given as shots.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
Talk with your doctor about a vaccine schedule that is best for your child. Go to www.cdc.gov/vaccines/imz-schedules/child-easyread.html for more information.
Benefits and risks of vaccinations
Vaccines help protect your child from disease. They also help reduce the spread of disease to others. Vaccines have greatly reduced the number of sudden outbreaks of a disease, which are called epidemics, that happen.
Side effects are mostly mild, if they happen at all. They may include:
Redness, mild swelling, or soreness where the shot was given. Apply ice or a cold pack to relieve these symptoms. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
A mild fever. Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) to lower a fever. Do not give aspirin to children and teens. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
Feeling drowsy and cranky, and having a poor appetite in some babies.
A mild rash 7 to 14 days after the chickenpox or MMR vaccination. These types of rashes can last several days. They will go away with no treatment.
Severe reactions to vaccines, such as a very high fever or trouble breathing, are rare. The risk of a serious problem from a disease is much greater than the risk of having a severe reaction to a vaccine. Many studies of vaccines have been done, and no link has been found between vaccines and multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorder, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Keeping records
It is very important to keep current records of your child's vaccines, including any reactions to the vaccines. You may need to show proof of vaccines when you enroll your child in day care or school.
Know when each vaccine can be given. Put reminder notes on your calendar or on your phone. You also may want to ask your doctor to send you notices when vaccines can be scheduled.
Be sure your records are accurate. Have your doctor go over your child's vaccine record with you during each office visit.
Keep the record in a safe place with other important documents. It is an important part of your child's lifelong medical records.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Your child has symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. These may include:
Sudden raised, red areas (hives) all over the body.
Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, or tongue.
Trouble breathing.
Passing out (losing consciousness). Or they may feel very lightheaded or suddenly feel weak, confused, or restless.
Severe belly pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Your child has a seizure.
Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Your child is sleepy or hard to wake up.
Your child has a high fever.
Your child cries for more than 3 hours after getting a shot.
Your child has symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as:
A rash or hives (raised, red areas on the skin).
Itching.
Swelling.
Mild belly pain or nausea.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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