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Treating Side Effects After Vaccination

Vaccines
19 November 2025

Occasionally after receiving a vaccine, there may be mild symptoms that subside within a few days. Simple measures are usually employed to treat symptoms that arise immediately after vaccination.

To relieve local symptoms like redness, pain, fever, or sensitivity at the injection site, one can apply a cold water compress directly onto the area.

Painkillers can be taken to alleviate general symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, or headaches and to reduce fever. It is advised to use a medication that you are familiar with.

Most side effects after vaccination are mild and resolve within a day or two. How to treat them and what precautions should be taken?

Mild and temporary side effects may appear sometimes after the administration of a vaccine. Note that according to accumulated knowledge, no link has been proven between vaccines and permanent damage, except in very rare cases.

If symptoms appear shortly after the administration of the vaccine, you can treat them immediately and with simple means that are available in every home.

Treating local symptoms

Local symptoms are usually redness, fever, pain, sensitivity or swelling at the injection site.

Treatment: you can apply a compress (a cloth dipped in cold or lukewarm water) directly onto the injection site to alleviate the symptoms.

Treating general symptoms

General common symptoms: an increase in body temperature along with chills, headaches, fatigue, changes in appetite, and overall weakness. These symptoms usually subside within 48 hours.

Treatment: you can use pain-relievers or fever-reducing medications to alleviate the symptoms.

Note: there may not be any side effects after the vaccination, and there is no need to use pain relievers for no reason. You should use pain relievers only when it is necessary.

Further information regarding potential side effects of vaccinations

When should you refer to a family physician

In general, if you feel any symptoms shortly after receiving a vaccine, contact your family physician or consult the hotline of your HMO.

HMO Inquiries

What vaccines are right for me? Click here for more information about the recommended vaccines for older adults