Infant immunizations are important to your baby’s health. They prevent against serious diseases and keep him well. But since baby’s first shots come two and three at a time, side effects from infant shots can be expected. There are several common side effects of infant shots, and while they’re not always pleasant, there are things you can do to make your baby more comfortable. Thankfully, they don’t last long, and the benefits from the infant immunizations far outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
Infant Immunization Side Effects
Crying
Crying is inevitable in almost all infants during and after their immunizations. Almost all infants cry while receiving shots, since they do pinch or sting. However, once they’re over and your baby is back in your arms, the crying usually stops. It may pick up again at home, and depending on the shot, last several hours. This can be very unsettling for parents, but it will pass. If crying persists for more than a few hours, call your pediatrician to make sure everything is okay.
Sleep
Some infants fall into a deep sleep after shots, and may even sleep through a feeding. This is nothing to be alarmed about. Let your infant get the extra rest, and pick up with feeding when he wakes up. Missing one feeding is not harmful to your infant, and the extra rest will help his body recuperate.
Prolonged Fussiness
Along with prolonged crying, many infants are fussy and almost whiney for a day or two after immunizations. They may have a hard time getting comfortable, even in familiar and soothing places like a favorite seat or swing. Napping may also be disrupted as they resist settling, and they may cry more during this time.
Slight Fever
Many babies get a low-grade fever after infant immunizations. The fever can appear later that day, that night, or they may wake up with one the next morning. This is a common side effect of infant shots, and usually lasts 24 to 48 hours. Ask your pediatrician how high a fever should be allowed to rise before it’s considered a risk and you need to call.
Poor Appetite
The day or two following baby’s first shots, your baby may experience a poor appetite. He may nurse for a shorter period of time or take in fewer ounces in his bottle. This is not a problem; it usually lasts for only a day or two, and then your baby will take in his normal amount.
Disruption in Routine
All of the above side effects can cause quite a disruption in your infant’s routine. If your baby has been eating and sleeping on a regular basis, you may feel like you’re back to your infant’s first weeks, experiencing erratic feedings and naps. Thankfully, as long as you don’t make this the new norm, your baby will fall back into his regular routine in a day or two.
What You Can Do
Comfort
One of the best things you can do for your infant’s immunizations is to just be there to offer extra comfort and snuggles. Holding your baby can provide reassurance and closeness; if your baby is especially fussy, try carrying him in a front pack or wrap as you go about your normal routine. This can also help your baby settle into sleep if he’s not going down for naps during this time. Don’t worry that you’re upsetting his routine; by providing extra comfort now, you’ll help him settle back into his normal schedule sooner.
Smaller, More Frequent Feedings
Anytime your infant doesn’t eat well, it can be a cause for concern. But since fussiness and a poor appetite are common infant immunization side effects, altering your baby’s mealtimes is another way you can help him transition through this time. If your baby isn’t eating as much at feedings, it may be necessary to offer feedings more frequently to keep him hydrated and well fed. And since nursing is also very comforting to babies, this can help ease the stress of the side effects of baby’s first shots.
Acetaminophen
If your baby has a fever or is fussy, he’s probably uncomfortable. And since babies can’t tell you what’s wrong, giving him the proper dose of acetaminophen can really help make your baby comfortable after his shots. This type of medication can make all of the difference between your baby being able to get comfortable and eat and sleep more regularly, which is helpful to both of you. Be sure to ask your pediatrician what the proper dose is for your baby, and follow all instructions.
Be Patient
The side effects of baby’s first shots can be difficult not only for babies, but for parents too. If you’ve established a good routine of full feedings, regular naps, and longer periods of sleep at night, all of the disruption can feel like you’re starting at the beginning all over again. You may worry that your baby is regressing giving up his routine. But don’t despair. These side effects only last for a short time. And while your routine may be upended for a few days, stick with it. After a day or two, your baby will settle right back into his previous patterns. Just keep being consistent, stay flexible during the discomfort, and know that you and your infant will be just fine.
Sources:
cdc.gov
kidshealth.org
marchofdimes.com
webmd.com
