Importance of Immunisations
Vaccinations are essential in safeguarding your child from diseases by stimulating the immune system to create antibodies that enhance their ability to combat future exposure.
Immunisations are given to children at a young age to ensure they are shielded against various diseases before they come into contact with them.
When to Give Paracetamol: It is recommended to give your child a dose of paracetamol shortly after receiving the Men B vaccine to prevent fever from developing.
Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided on the paracetamol packaging or consult with your healthcare provider for specific recommendations based on your child’s age and weight.
Fever Management: If your child develops a fever after vaccination, continue to monitor their temperature and administer paracetamol as needed, following the recommended dosage guidelines.
Consultation: If you have any concerns about managing your child’s fever or administering paracetamol, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further guidance and support.
Guidelines for Paracetamol Usage Pre and Post Vaccinations
Prescriptions and Doses
Post-Vaccination Care Recommendations
Give paracetamol at vaccination time or immediately after the Men B vaccine to decrease fever risks. Consult leaflets for dosing information and prescriptions.
For premature infants, adhere to weight-based dosing guidelines for prescribing paracetamol.
Administer 3 regular paracetamol doses post-vaccination, even without fever. Seek medical advice if fever persists beyond 48 hours.
Background:
Fever is a common occurrence post-vaccination, especially with MenB vaccines at 2 and 4 months. Typically, fever peaks 6 hours following vaccination and resolves within 48 hours. Providing three paracetamol doses post-MenB vaccination based on weight is recommended.
Children may experience side effects like redness, swelling, irritability, or slight fever post-vaccination. Some babies may have mild diarrhea following the rotavirus vaccination. Monitoring the temperature with a digital thermometer in case of fever is advisable.
To manage post-vaccination fever, medications containing paracetamol like CALPOL® Infant Suspension can be beneficial. Administer paracetamol promptly after vaccination to prevent fever. Ensure the child remains cool, gets adequate rest, and stays hydrated.
Post-vaccination fevers are usually mild and resolve within a day or two. Consult a doctor if concerns arise. Vaccinations are crucial for a child’s health, and guidance is provided during vaccination appointments.
For the Bexsero vaccine, paracetamol is recommended for infants under 2 years to prevent and treat fever. Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site are common after Bexsero vaccination. Paracetamol is suggested with each Bexsero dose to reduce fever risk, even if multiple doses are received.
Bexsero is administered at 3, 5, and 12 months, with paracetamol advised at these intervals. Three doses of paracetamol with intervals are recommended, and additional doses can be given if necessary. Do not exceed four doses within a 24-hour period. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Liquid paracetamol is available with a prescription or over the counter at pharmacies. Ensure you have the correct 120mg/5ml infant strength. Be aware that a stronger liquid paracetamol is available. Adhere to the dosing instructions on the bottle or consult healthcare professionals. Use a measuring spoon or syringe for dosing. Do not exceed four doses within a 24-hour period, as excessive intake can be harmful.
If concerns arise after your child’s vaccination, contact your family doctor, nurse, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116. Provide plenty of fluids, keep your child lightly clothed, maintain a comfortable room temperature, and offer comfort if your child has a fever.
If your child experiences discomfort at the injection site, refrain from rubbing it. Apply a cool damp cloth or ice pack wrapped in a dry cloth to the affected area.