Immunizations
When to Call a Doctor
Call 911 or other emergency services if you or your child develops any of the following symptoms:
- An allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, hoarseness, hives, paleness, weakness, a fast heart rate, or dizziness.
- Behavior changes, such as passing out (losing consciousness), acting confused, being very sleepy or hard to wake up, or not responding to being touched or talked to.
- A seizure.
Call your doctor if:
- Redness and swelling at the site of the shot (injection) last longer than 48 hours.
- A fever lasts longer than 48 hours after receiving a shot.
- Any unusual reaction occurs.
If a fever develops after an immunization, see one of the following topics to find out if you need to call your doctor:
Talk with your doctor about whether you need special immunizations because you:
- Are in close contact with people who have an infectious disease.
- Have planned international travel, especially to developing countries.
- Live with or visit a pregnant woman or baby.
- Live with someone who has an impaired immune system.
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| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: May 29, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics | |
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