Concerns About Vaccination Reactions in Young Children: A Parent's Dilemma

Vaccine Issues

Dr.
Lin: Hello, my child turned one and a half years old on the 15th of this month and needed to receive the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) combination vaccine.
He had previously received the pentavalent vaccine for his first three doses, but when I took him to the hospital this time, the doctor informed me that the pentavalent vaccine was out of stock and that he would need to receive the quadrivalent vaccine instead.
I asked the doctor if there would be any issues with the quadrivalent vaccine, and the doctor assured me there would be no problems.

However, after receiving the vaccine and returning home, my child fell asleep but suddenly woke up crying and then vomited, appearing very uncomfortable.
After vomiting, he seemed to feel much better.
I called the hospital, and they advised me to monitor him.
The next day, when he woke up, he seemed fine, but then he suddenly had a seizure and went into shock, with a temperature reaching 40.6 degrees Celsius.
He was taken to the hospital, where tests revealed that he had pharyngitis.

To be honest, I have difficulty believing this diagnosis because my child had a cold before receiving the vaccine, but I waited until he recovered from the cold before taking him for the vaccination.
Additionally, the doctor examined him before administering the vaccine, and if there had been any issues, the doctor should have mentioned them.
My child has never experienced anything like this before; it only happened after receiving the quadrivalent vaccine.

I am struggling to cope with my family's lack of understanding regarding this situation.
I really hope you can clarify for me whether this is related to the vaccine or a medical error.
I would like to know if I should take my child back to the hospital for an EEG, as the last visit only involved blood tests and a urine test.
If further examinations are necessary, which specialty should I consult, and will there be out-of-pocket expenses? If so, how much would it be?
Thank you for your help, and I sincerely hope you can provide me with answers.

Dui Yiliao Shīwàng de Māmā, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/30

Dr. Lin Huizhen reply Pediatrics

Dear Mother of the Child,
I hope this message finds you well.
I wanted to check in to see if your child’s fever has subsided and how their overall condition is.

It is important to note that the likelihood of developing a fever from the pentavalent vaccine is similar to that of the quadrivalent vaccine.
The main difference between the two is the type of polio vaccine used; the pentavalent vaccine contains an injectable polio vaccine, while the quadrivalent vaccine uses an oral polio vaccine.
The primary component responsible for fever in the trivalent, quadrivalent, and pentavalent vaccines is derived from the pertussis vaccine, rather than the polio vaccine.
Both the quadrivalent and pentavalent vaccines have undergone processing to mitigate this component.
Therefore, the chances of developing a fever from either vaccine are comparable.
Based on your description, it seems that your child’s fever-related convulsions are likely due to febrile seizures.
I have attached educational material regarding febrile seizures for your reference.
Febrile seizures occur because a child’s brain is still developing, and during a fever, the brain can easily discharge excessive electrical activity, leading to convulsions.
Generally, these types of seizures do not cause harm to a child’s brain.
It may be beneficial to conduct an EEG to assess whether your child’s brain shows any predisposition to seizures.
Ultimately, it is crucial to identify the cause of the fever.
If your child’s fever has not resolved, I recommend taking them to a pediatrician for further evaluation.
The Department of Pediatrics at Tainan Hospital cares about your health!

Reply Date: 2005/12/30

More Info

When it comes to vaccination reactions in young children, it is understandable for parents to feel anxious, especially after experiencing an adverse event following immunization. In your case, your child received a combination vaccine (the four-in-one vaccine) and subsequently exhibited concerning symptoms, including high fever and convulsions. It is crucial to address your concerns with a comprehensive understanding of vaccine safety, potential reactions, and the appropriate steps to take.

First, it is important to recognize that vaccines, like any medical intervention, can have side effects. Most reactions to vaccines are mild and temporary, such as fever, irritability, or localized swelling at the injection site. Severe reactions, such as high fever or convulsions, are rare but can occur. In your situation, the timing of the symptoms following vaccination raises questions about the cause. While it is possible that the vaccine could have contributed to the fever and subsequent convulsions, it is also important to consider other factors, such as underlying infections or pre-existing conditions.

In your case, the healthcare providers diagnosed your child with tonsillitis, which could explain the high fever and discomfort. It is essential to understand that children can develop infections independently of vaccination, and the presence of a respiratory infection prior to vaccination may have increased the likelihood of a febrile reaction. The fact that your child was examined before vaccination and deemed fit to receive the vaccine is also a critical point. Healthcare providers typically assess a child's health status to ensure they are not acutely ill before administering vaccines.

Regarding your concerns about whether to pursue further medical evaluation, such as an EEG (electroencephalogram) to check for any underlying neurological issues, it is advisable to consult with your pediatrician. They can provide guidance on whether additional testing is warranted based on your child's symptoms and medical history. If your child continues to experience unusual symptoms or if you have ongoing concerns about their health, it is always best to seek medical advice.

In terms of costs, the price for additional tests can vary widely depending on your location, the specific tests ordered, and whether you have insurance coverage. It is advisable to contact your healthcare provider or insurance company for detailed information regarding potential costs.

Lastly, it is essential to communicate openly with your family about your child's health and the complexities surrounding vaccination. Vaccines are a critical tool in preventing serious diseases, and while adverse reactions can occur, the benefits of vaccination in protecting against potentially severe illnesses often outweigh the risks. If you feel overwhelmed, consider seeking support from healthcare professionals or parent support groups who can provide reassurance and information.

In summary, while it is natural to have concerns about vaccination reactions, it is essential to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. Consult with your pediatrician regarding any ongoing symptoms, consider further evaluations if necessary, and maintain open communication with your family about the importance of vaccinations and the potential for mild reactions. Your child's health and well-being are paramount, and seeking professional guidance is always the best course of action.

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