What to Expect After Your Child’s Vaccination

While your child’s vaccination is important to their health, it’s not exactly an enjoyable process for them or even you. Tri-Valley Pediatrics of Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA, share what to expect after shots in the guide below so that you can be prepared and make your child as comfortable as possible. 

Understanding Vaccinations 

Vaccinations can create some side effects that can be a little scary if you’re not informed. However, these side effects are actually a sign that the shots and the body are doing their jobs. 

Vaccinations are used to introduce dead or weakened strains of harmful or potentially fatal illnesses that cause the body to form a defense against them. When the vaccinations are administered, the immune system goes to work fighting it off and developing antibodies. If your child comes into contact with the stronger version of the illness, their bodies can fight it off. 

While this is a good thing, the body goes through mild symptoms while developing those antibodies. For example, the body temperature elevates as it fights the illness, leading to a fever. This fever is normally not too high, but it can be alarming if you’re not expecting it. 

Other side effects can include: 

• Pain, swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection site 
• Chills, which are often due to the fever 
• Headaches, muscle aches, or joint aches 
• Being very tired and lacking energy 
• Decrease or lack of appetite 
• Not getting good quality sleep 
• Being “clingy”

Typically, these side effects don’t last more than a couple of days. If you are concerned about any vaccination symptoms or how long they last, don’t hesitate to call our team at Tri-Valley Pediatrics in Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA.

Tips to Make This Time More Comfortable 

 It’s normal for parents to feel a bit helpless when their child seems to be suffering, but there are a few things you can do. 

• Keep your child hydrated.
• Use a cool, wet washcloth on the injection site to reduce irritation.
• Sponge them with lukewarm water when fever is present. 
• Keep them in light clothes to help regulate their temperature. 
• Keep some pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, on hand. It’s always best to check with their doctor to ensure this is safe, in case your child has any conditions or symptoms that might interfere. Generally, though, your pediatrician will approve. 

For more guidance or to schedule a vaccination appointment, call our Tri-Valley Pediatrics team in Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA. You can reach our Pleasanton location by calling (925) 460-8444 or our San Ramon location by calling (925) 380-6230.