How to Identify Pertussis Vaccine Side Effects

A Pertussis vaccine is usually given with two other vaccines- diphtheria and tetanus. The combination is referred to as a DTaP vaccine and is a very common vaccine among children. The risks involved in the vaccine are much less than the risk of contracting Pertussis, but occasionally the vaccine will cause mild side effects. Here are steps for identifying them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Identify common side effects such as a mild fever, redness, swelling, and soreness near the injection area. These are normal as side effects go of the vaccine and should cause little concern from the patient or his parents. The fever will be around 100 degrees and last for a couple days. The soreness and redness will go away within a few days and is more common after the 4th and 5th dose. Non aspirin medication can be given to the child for a fever or achiness.
2. Look for less common side effects that do not harm the child but can be bothersome. These include vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue and fussiness. Fussiness occurs to one in three kids. Fatigue happens to one in ten kids. All of these side effects should cease within three days.
3. Be on the alert for seizures. Jerking or staring are side effects that fall under the seizure category. Seizing and staring are less common, but a doctor should be called if these happen. If the seizure does not cease it can lead to a coma and permanent brain damage.
4. Contact your doctor if you are concerned by any symptoms that occur following the vaccine. In some cases, future vaccines will be done by separating the three components to try to isolate the one causing the problem. The offending vaccine may be delayed several months or a year to a time when a child might be more able to tolerate it.