Common Side Effects of Vaccines
Routine vaccinations are the strongest and most effective means of protection we can provide to our children against numerous serious diseases. However, as with any medication or medical intervention, vaccines may also lead to the development of symptoms. They may appear as an unforeseen symptom, an atypical laboratory finding, or a new medical diagnosis.
It is important to note that not all conditions or medical phenomena appearing shortly after vaccination are necessarily caused by the vaccine and can be coincidental. To monitor the safety of vaccines, the Ministry of Health systematically monitors and collects data on reported side effects. Therefore, it is crucial to report any unusual events that occur shortly after vaccination to a Tipat Halav (Family Health Center) nurse. The nurse will notify the Ministry of Health. To date, there is no established link between vaccines and permanent damage, except for extremely rare instances. On the other hand, the decision to not vaccinate your child may involve the risk of contracting a serious disease, and it can also pose a risk of illness to those in the vicinity.
In any case, it is advised to learn about the possible side effects and be prepared for them. Usually, they are mild and pass quickly.
During your visit to Tipat Halav or a clinic, the nurse will describe the common side effects that may appear after receiving a vaccine. The symptoms are usually local (at the injection site) or systemic.
Common side effects that may appear after vaccination
Local symptoms
These symptoms are relatively frequent, usually appear within 24–48 hours after vaccination and pass quickly.
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Redness -
Fever -
Pain -
Sensitivity or swelling at the injection site
Systemic symptoms
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Irritability -
Fever -
Drowsiness -
Appetite changes or gastrointestinal disorders -
Diffuse rash
Mild allergic symptoms
These are rare symptoms
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Runny nose -
Coughing -
Itchiness -
Rash
More information on the side effects associated with each vaccine is provided in the vaccination guide (Hebrew) and the manufacturer's leaflet for each vaccine.
Anaphylactic symptoms (extremely rare)
An immediate allergic anaphylactic reaction (anaphylaxis) is exceptionally rare and has an incidence rate of 1 in million vaccination doses, but it may be life-threatening. Such a reaction typically occurs within the first minutes after vaccination, and therefore it is imperative to remain at the Tipat Halav or the clinic for 15 minutes after vaccination. The nurses at the clinic are equipped to manage such a reaction.
Rare symptoms
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The 5-in-1 vaccine (DTaP-IPV-HIB)
In rare instances, after receiving the DTaP-IPV-HIB vaccine (which contains diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, inactivated polio, and Haemophiles influenzae B vaccines), seizures can occur up to 3 days following vaccination. These are typically associated with fever and do not pose a risk of permanent nerve damage. However, it is recommended to seek medical attention at the HMO or a medical emergency center.
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The 4-in-1 vaccine (MMRV)
In rare instances, after receiving the MMRV vaccine (which contains measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox vaccines), a condition known as thrombocytopenia may develop, in which the number of platelets in the blood is low, leading to bleeding or the appearance of spots on the skin. If this occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at the HMO or a medical emergency center.
Additional rare symptoms associated with this vaccination are seizures that are typically related to fever within 5 to 12 days after vaccination, inflammation of the testicles or inflammation of the salivary glands.
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The rotavirus vaccine
In rare instances, the first or second vaccination against the rotavirus may lead to a condition called intussusception, in which a portion of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent part, potentially causing bowel obstruction. Signs and symptoms of intussusception may include:
- Excessive crying and abdominal pain.
- Vomiting or the appearance of blood in the stool.
- Drawing the legs up towards the chest.
- Weakness and irritability.
If any of these signs or symptoms appears, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can lead to a full recovery.
When to contact an HMO or emergency medical center after vaccination
- If your child appears apathetic.
- If fever lasts beyond 24-48 hours.
- If there are persistent changes in appetite and eating patterns beyond 24-48 hours.
- If any other phenomenon causes concern.
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Ways to relieve side effects after vaccination
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site: you can apply a clean cloth soaked in lukewarm water to the injection site. Avoid massaging the area.
- Fever, pain, and general discomfort: you can administer an analgesic to help relieve pain and reduce fever after ensuring no contraindication to the medication exists (such as known allergies to one of the medication’s ingredients). Selecting a medication that your child has previously tolerated is preferable.
Remember that using over-the-counter medications should be done cautiously and responsibly. The information provided in the manufacturer's instructions should be carefully reviewed, and the child's weight and age should be taken into consideration. If there is any uncertainty, consult the child's physician to determine the most appropriate treatment.