Can Kids Safely Get Their Second COVID Vaccine After Oral Sores?

Oral ulcers after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

Hello Dr.
Pei, my son, who is over 5 years old, received his first dose of the pediatric BNT vaccine on May 28.
A few days later, he developed five ulcers in his mouth, concentrated at the junction of the inside of his upper lip and the gums.
After applying an oral ointment, it took about a week and a half for them to heal.
I am unsure if it is appropriate for him to receive the second dose.
Thank you, doctor.

Ms. Hu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/04

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello, Ms.
Hu! 1.
There have indeed been recent reports of cases of oral ulcers occurring after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine; 2.
This may be related to changes in the body's immune response, or it could be a mere correlation without a causal relationship; 3.
Oral ulcers are not a contraindication for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
It is recommended that your son continue to receive the vaccine according to the guidelines to achieve complete protection!

Reply Date: 2022/08/04

More Info

When it comes to administering the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to children who have experienced oral sores after the first dose, it is essential to consider several factors. Based on the information provided, your son developed oral ulcers shortly after receiving the first dose of the pediatric BNT vaccine. These ulcers are not uncommon and can occur due to various reasons, including immune responses or unrelated factors.
Firstly, it is important to note that the occurrence of oral sores does not automatically contraindicate the administration of the second dose of the vaccine. According to medical guidelines and expert opinions, oral ulcers are not considered a reason to delay vaccination. The primary concern is whether the child is currently experiencing any active symptoms or significant discomfort that might interfere with the vaccination process. If the ulcers have healed and the child is otherwise healthy, it is generally safe to proceed with the second dose.

The immune response triggered by vaccines can sometimes lead to mild side effects, including oral ulcers, but these are typically transient and resolve on their own. In your case, since the ulcers healed after a week and your son is now symptom-free, he should be able to receive the second dose without any issues.
Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the child is in good health at the time of vaccination. If there are any lingering symptoms or if the child has developed new health issues, it would be wise to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider before proceeding. They can assess the child's overall health and provide personalized recommendations.

Moreover, vaccination is vital for children, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccines have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications associated with COVID-19. By completing the vaccination series, your child will gain better protection against the virus and its variants.

In summary, if your son has fully recovered from the oral sores and is in good health, he can safely receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice, but based on current medical understanding, there should be no significant concerns regarding the timing of the second dose in relation to the previous oral ulcers. Vaccination remains a critical tool in safeguarding children's health during this pandemic.

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