Post Vaccination Advice

For Children

Possible Reactions and Ways to Manage Them

Pain, swelling or redness at the injection site (usually disappears after 24 hours)

• Give your child Syrup Paracetamol as per recommended dose
• Place a cool wet towel over the injection site for few minutes
• Bring your child to see a doctor if the pain, swelling or redness worsens or persists for more than 24 hours

Fever

• Give your child Syrup Paracetamol if the temperature is above 37.5ºC
• Sponge your child with cool tap water when the temperature is above 38ºC
• Continue to give your child water or fluids to help cool the body
• Monitor the body temperature regularly with a thermometer
• Bring your child to see a doctor if the temperature is 38.5ºC and above or if fever persists for more than 24 hours.

Guide in Giving Syrup Paracetamol to Your Child

• Syrup Paracetamol may be given 4 to 6 hourly when necessary up to a maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours.
• Can be taken with or without food.Shake bottle before use. 
• Refrigerate after opening. Do not freeze. Discard 6 months after opening.

For Adults

1. Pain, swelling or redness at the injection site
2. Fever
3. Vomiting
4. Limitation of arm movement (on the side where you received the injection)

The above list of reactions is not exhaustive. Please consult your doctor if you notice any other reactions.

How to Manage Local Reactions

• If swelling appears on the vaccination site, place a cool towel over it to reduce swelling.
• If you develop a fever, take anti-fever medicine for example, paracetamol (provided you are not allergic to it).
• Consult your doctor if temperature remains at 38.5ºC and above, or if the pain, swelling or redness worsens or persists for more than 24 hours.

Allergic Reactions

• Allergic reactions to vaccines (e.g. rashes or eye swelling) are very uncommon but they require immediate attention.
• Symptoms of severe allergy include swelling of the tongue and difficulty breathing.
• Inform the nurse immediately if you develop any allergic reaction or feel unwell after any vaccination.