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Immunizations - When to Call a Doctor

Call 911 or other emergency services if you or your child has a severe reaction to any immunization as indicated by:

  • A major allergic reaction, such as a severe asthma episode, severe problems breathing or swallowing, or hives.
  • Significant changes in alertness within 7 days of getting immunized.
  • A seizure.
  • Collapsing.

Call your doctor immediately if:

  • Your child has signs of a severe reaction within 2 to 3 days after an immunization. For example, call your doctor if your child cries for more than 3 hours and cannot be consoled or has a fever of 104.5F or higher. For more information about a fever, see the topics:
  • You or your child has any unusual reaction after receiving an immunization.

Call your doctor if:

  • Redness and swelling at the site of the shot (injection) persists for more than 48 hours after being immunized.
  • A fever lasts for more than 48 hours after you or your child received a shot.

Talk with your doctor about whether you need special immunizations because of:

  • Close contact with people who have an infectious disease.
  • Planned international travel, especially to developing countries.
  • Living with or visiting a pregnant woman or infant.
  • A person with an impaired immune system in your household.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 29, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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