Baby vaccine allergy?

Allergic reactions after vaccination in babies are quite rare (approximately 1-2 per million) and usually develop against a component of the vaccine (egg protein, gelatin, antibiotics, etc.).

Symptoms that may appear immediately after vaccination (within the first 2 hours) can include:

• Widespread rash (hives)
• Swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Signs of shock (paleness, fainting, low blood pressure)

These types of anaphylactic reactions require emergency intervention and trained personnel along with emergency medications such as epinephrine are available at the vaccination site.

Milder, late-starting reactions (rash, mild fever, swelling appearing hours or days after vaccination) are often not allergies but the baby's immune system's normal response to the vaccine and do not cause concern.

What is important: If an allergic reaction is seen after vaccination in a baby, before subsequent vaccinations, you should definitely consult a pediatric allergist, and if necessary, the vaccine can be administered in a hospital setting under controlled conditions. An allergy to one vaccine does not mean that all other vaccines cannot be administered—in most cases, a different formulation of the same vaccine or a special protocol can be applied.

Note: This information is not medical advice; please consult your doctor regarding medications and dosages.