Your child had his immunizations earlier in the day, and now he seems fussy. Should you call the doctor or use home treatments and wait it out? Here are some suggestions:
Fever
If you suspect your child has a fever, check it with a thermometer. Holding your hand against his forehead isn't reliable. It's best to use an electronic thermometer - oral if your child is old enough to cooperate, otherwise rectally. Due to the potential toxicity of mercury, most doctors don't recommend using thermometers containing it.
If your child has a fever that seems to be making him uncomfortable, you can do one or more of the following:
• Give your child plenty of cool liquids to drink. He may not want to drink a lot at one time. Regular sipping is just fine.
• Don't over dress your child. Loose clothing and only one layer is just fine.
• Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc.). Don't use aspirin.
• If your child's temperature is high, stays high, and your child appears really uncomfortable, call your child's doctor.
Fussiness
A child may be fussy due to the pain of the injection. However, if he remains fussy for more than an hour or two, you should consider giving him acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Call your child's doctor if the fussiness persists for more than 24 hours.
Redness and Swelling
If the injection site and the area surrounding it is red, hot, or swollen and is making your child uncomfortable, then cover the area with a clean, cool, wet cloth. Repeat this as often as it helps. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to treat the pain. Call your child's doctor if the symptoms last for more than 24 hours.
Serious Problems
You should call your child's doctor if your child has any of the following:
• Paleness
• Limpness
• Crying for more than three hours and can't be consoled
• Crying that is abnormal or high pitched
• Shaking, twitching, or jerking of his body
• Marked decrease in activity or level of responsiveness
Most children have no significant reactions to immunizations. They are important in maintaining your child's health.
Immunization Action Coalition, 10/04.
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