As new parents, it is very important to keep track of your newborn’s vaccinations. It is vital to give your baby vaccines to keep them and ourselves protected from life threatening diseases. Fatal diseases like smallpox, polio and tetanus that were very common have now almost been eradicated due to effective vaccines.
Staying updated on vaccines is also a social responsibility. Vaccinations promote herd immunity. If many people are vaccinated, then it becomes difficult for the infection to spread, protecting people who cannot be vaccinated too.
It is common for your child to experience some mild side effects after getting a vaccination shot. This simply means that your child’s immune system is working. This blog is a detailed guide on how to take care of your baby after vaccination.
Understanding vaccines and its side effects
In order to provide the best care for your little one post vaccination, it is important to first understand what vaccines are and how they work.
When a healthy body is infected with a germ, the immune system recognises the germ as a foreign body and produces antibodies to fight the germ. Additionally it also remembers this germ, so that if the person is infected again, the immune system recognises it instantly and starts producing antibodies to fight it before it can make the person sick.
Vaccinations introduce a weakened germ to your baby’s immune system. Because it is weakened, the germ doesn’t make your baby sick. But the immune system will start making antibodies and remember this germ.
This basic principle is the idea behind vaccines. As the immune system of your baby produces antibodies, it is natural for your baby to go through some mild side effects, including
- Mild fever (below 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Soreness or tenderness in the injected area
- Increased fussiness or irritability
- Sleepiness or fatigue
- Decreased appetite
Providing some extra care can help you and your baby sail through the first few irritable days after a vaccination.
How to take care of your baby after vaccination
1. Managing fever
A slight fever is one of the most common side effects after a vaccination. But don’t worry, it usually subsides within a few days. To keep your baby comfortable,
- Dress them lightly and do not cover them with a blanket so that the baby doesn’t feel overheated.
- Make sure your little one is properly hydrated by breastfeeding or formula.
- Consider medication like Ibuprofen to get relief from fever.
2. Relieving pain and discomfort
It is usual for babies to feel pain and soreness at the site of the injection. To help your child ease through the pain,
- Apply a cool, damp washcloth or ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) to the area for 10-15 minutes.
- Avoid pressing on the injection site or massaging it.
- Keep the affected area exposed to air rather than covering it with tight clothing.
3. Extra cuddles
For your baby, there is no bigger stress-reliever than hearing your voice and being close to you. Your baby may get more fussy and cranky after getting vaccinated. Show them some extra love and affection by holding and cuddling them more often. Talk to them gently. If you are actively breastfeeding, feed your child more often as breastfeeding is much more than keeping your baby’s tummy full. The warmth and comfort that comes from being physically close to their parents can help your baby recover more quickly.
4. Ensuring Proper Nutrition and Hydration
A well-fed and hydrated baby recovers faster from vaccine side effects. Here’s how you can help:
- Continue breastfeeding or bottle-feeding as usual.
- Offer frequent small feedings if your baby has a reduced appetite.
- Give extra fluids, such as water (for babies older than six months), to prevent dehydration.
5. Encouraging Rest and Sleep
Vaccinations can make babies feel more tired than usual. Let your baby sleep whenever they need to:
- Keep the room quiet and dimly lit for better rest.
- Avoid overstimulation from loud noises or bright lights.
- Follow their natural sleep cues and avoid waking them up unnecessarily.
6. Don’t hesitate to ask for help
As a parent, you have to be in the healthiest state to provide the best care for your child. If you find yourselves feeling overwhelmed, do not hesitate to ask for help. Take help from extended family or hire professional nanny services that can lend you a hand.
7. When to Call the Doctor
While mild side effects are normal, you should contact your pediatrician if:
- Fever exceeds 102°F (39°C) and doesn’t subside within 48 hours.
- The injection site shows severe redness, swelling, or pus.
- Your baby refuses to eat or drink for several hours.
- There’s persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
- Your baby seems excessively lethargic or weak.
Conclusion
Taking care of your baby after a vaccination involves close monitoring, comfort, and ensuring they get enough rest and hydration. While mild reactions are normal, being prepared can make the experience easier for both you and your baby. Always follow your pediatrician’s advice and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you have concerns. With the right care, your baby will be back to their happy and healthy self in no time!
