Side Effects Of Vaccines In Babies

Knowing the side effects of vaccines is important so parents can make a decision to schedule them.

Vaccines are designed to prevent disease. The controversies that surround them are generated because most of them are created from the virus that creates the condition itself.

However, the use of vaccines has led to a decrease in fatal diseases, which were previously typical.

As soon as a baby is born, it is important to protect its health. Vaccines fulfill this function for diseases that can be fatal by preventing infections from an early age.

Therefore, it is important to discuss vaccines at each visit to the pediatrician.

Vaccine control

An important part of your consultations with a pediatrician is to validate whether your baby is up to date, according to vaccines.

The timing of vaccinations depends on the age and development of the child. In some cases, there are vaccines that require more than one dose to be effective and strong.

The basic vaccines that every baby should expect to  prevent 7 childhood diseases are: 

• Diphtheria
• Tetanus
• Whooping cough
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Hib and pneumococcal disease (the cause of bacterial and viral meningitis, respectively)

From the second month, all vaccines can be scheduled. These reinforcements take place every two or four months thereafter,  depending on the indications.

In the case of vaccines against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and polio, they are amplified up to the age of 4-6 years.

What are the side effects of vaccines in babies?

Vaccines do not always cause some kind of reaction in babies. In many cases, it all  depends on the baby’s immune system and tolerance to vaccines. 

The effects can be classified as mild, moderate and complex.

The most common reactions are fever, swelling and pain  where the vaccines were given, as well as irritability.

Some children also experience a lack of appetite. In these cases, which are perceived as mild effects, are treated with NSAIDs.

Moderate reactions may include fever equal to or greater than 40 degrees Celsius.

They can last more than 5 days, with the presence of persistent crying for 3 hours or more.

As part of more complex side effects of vaccines, there may be seizures or lack of consciousness. 

How to counteract side effects of vaccines

In case of any unintended reaction to a vaccine,  it is advisable to consult your pediatrician.

However, there are some typical treatments that can help minimize the basic side effects.

• In case of fever. If there is discomfort, or mild fever, home care can be provided, including wet cloths on the forehead. Bathing the baby can also lower body temperature. 

If the fever is high, you should give a treatment prescribed by your doctor. In most cases, it is treated with antipyretics (NSAIDs).

Some doctors recommend giving a dose of this medicine as prevention, even if there is no fever. 

Infections, pain, discomfort

• In case of swelling or infection. The area where the vaccine was given usually turns red. In these cases,  a cold wrap can be put on to minimize the discomfort. 

If there is a lump or swelling, do not touch it. It will disappear by itself. In case of abscess, consult a doctor.

• In case of pain or discomfort. Generally, on the arm or leg where the vaccine was given, there will be soreness and this will cause irritation or whimsy in children. It is advisable to put the baby to sleep and avoid touching the painful area.

When any of  the reactions that are considered to be moderate or complex break out, you should seek help immediately. Immediate medical attention guarantees the child’s progress.

Vaccination recommendations

• Only specialists.  Vaccines should be given  under strict supervision of a specialist,  who also makes sure that the vaccine is made in an authorized laboratory. Similarly, hygienic procedure should be followed when dosing.
• Medical indication. Pediatricians are the only ones who can indicate when it is time to vaccinate a baby. Some children do not meet all the requirements to be vaccinated,  either due to their characteristics, or by having a short-term illness.

With all this information, you can surely create an opinion on the subject.

The more you know, the more tools you have to decide what is best for your baby.

Furthermore, of course, it is always good to get the point of view from a professional.