Reaction to a vaccine: what is normal

vaccine reaction · fever after vaccination · redness after a shot · vaccine side effects

After a vaccine the body builds protection, and sometimes you can feel it. Most reactions are mild and pass on their own in 1 to 3 days.

For everyone after a vaccine, for yourself and for your child.

⏱ Duration: normal reactions usually pass in 1 to 3 days

Be sure to tell your doctor

Fever medicine. Keep at home the fever reducer your doctor advises for your age or your child's.
Thermometer. Check that your thermometer works.
Phone. Write down the phone number of the clinic where the vaccine was given.

Stay at the clinic for the first 30 minutes after the shot
At home, watch how you or your child feel and the injection spot
Redness and a firm lump up to a few centimeters across are usually normal
A mild fever, weakness or fussiness in the first 1 to 2 days is also normal
With a fever, offer more drinks and light clothing
Give a fever reducer if the doctor advised it
After some live vaccines, a reaction can come later, after 5 to 14 days. Ask your doctor

Trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a rash all over: call your local emergency number
Seizures or loss of consciousness: call your local emergency number
Very high fever that does not come down, or a child crying nonstop for several hours: see a doctor urgently
The injection spot is very swollen, hot, with pus: see a doctor

If there is no reaction, did the vaccine not work?

No. Protection builds even without a noticeable reaction.

Can we go out after a vaccine?

Usually yes, if you feel well. Avoid getting chilled and crowds on the first day.