Vaccine Reactions in Infants: When to Seek Medical Advice

Preventive vaccination

My friend's child is a little over two months old.
Yesterday morning, they received both the pneumococcal vaccine and the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) combination vaccine at the health clinic.
In the evening, the child developed a high fever.
Could this be caused by the vaccines? Should they not have received two vaccines at once? Do they need to see a doctor?

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/22

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

These two vaccines can be administered simultaneously at different sites without any issues.
The occurrence of fever is consistent with potential side effects after vaccination; however, fever caused by vaccination typically resolves within 24 hours.
Therefore, if the child’s activity level and appetite are normal, it is advisable to monitor for 24 hours.
If there is a decrease in activity or appetite, or if the fever persists beyond 24 hours, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2017/04/22

More Info

When it comes to vaccinations in infants, it's important to understand that reactions can occur, and parents should be vigilant about monitoring their child's health after receiving vaccines. In your friend's case, the child received both the pneumococcal vaccine and the combination DTaP-Hib-IPV vaccine (often referred to as the five-in-one vaccine) at the same time. It is common practice to administer multiple vaccines during a single visit, as this helps to ensure that children are protected against various diseases without requiring multiple trips to the clinic.

Fever is a known side effect of vaccinations, particularly with the DTaP vaccine, which can cause a mild to moderate fever in some children. This reaction is typically a sign that the immune system is responding to the vaccine, which is a normal part of the vaccination process. In most cases, a fever following vaccination is not a cause for alarm and can be managed at home with appropriate fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen, as recommended by a healthcare provider.

However, there are specific situations where parents should seek medical advice. If the infant experiences a high fever (generally considered to be 101°F or higher), persistent crying, unusual lethargy, or any other concerning symptoms that seem out of the ordinary, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. Additionally, if the fever lasts more than 24 hours or if the child appears to be in distress, medical attention should be sought.

In terms of whether it is appropriate to administer two vaccines at once, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations recommend this practice. The benefits of simultaneous vaccinations include improved compliance with vaccination schedules and reduced discomfort for the child, as they only have to endure one visit and one set of injections. The vaccines are designed to be safe when given together, and the risk of severe reactions is very low.

It's also important for parents to keep a record of the vaccines administered, including the dates and any reactions observed. This information can be helpful for healthcare providers in future visits and can assist in monitoring the child's overall health and vaccination history.

In conclusion, while a fever following vaccination can be expected, parents should remain observant and proactive. If there are any doubts or concerns about the child's reaction to the vaccines, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional. This ensures that the child receives the best possible care and that any potential complications are addressed promptly.

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