Useful information following vaccination

The information below, along with a checklist of vaccine-specific side effects, has been provided for you to discuss with your patients before they or their children are vaccinated. They can also read Useful information following vaccination (PDF 170KB).

Vaccinations, like any medication may cause side effects. This page explains common reactions that may be experienced after receiving a vaccine and the recommended action for you to take if you are concerned.

You should remain at the centre for 15 minutes following vaccination to ensure you and/or your child is within easy access of medical care in the unlikely event of a severe or rare reaction which usually occurs within the first 15 minutes following vaccination.

Common reactions

Most vaccine reactions as explained by your doctor or nurse are minor events and are usually mild and short lasting and in most instances do not need special treatment.

Rare reactions

As with any medication, on rare occasions, an individual may experience a significant reaction (e.g. seizure).

In the event of a significant reaction, you should see medical advice immediately:

• Call your local GP or after hours healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222, who will advise you on what to do next. The advice may include calling an ambulance (000) to get immediate assistance.

• See your family doctor (GP if you are concerned) or if after hours, attend your local hospital Emergency Department for advice.

Seizure (convulsion or fit)

Some children are more prone to seizures when experiencing a high fever. The seizure usually lasts approximately 20 seconds and very rarely more than 2 minutes. If a child experiences a seizure following vaccination they should be checked by their GP or after hours hospital ED.

Intussusception* (relates to rotavirus)

It is an uncommon form of bowel obstruction where one segment of the bowel slides into the next, much like the pieces of a telescope.

There is a very small risk of this occurring in a baby in the first one to seven days after receiving the first dose of rotavirus vaccine, and a smaller risk after the second dose of rotavirus vaccine. The baby usually experiences bouts of crying, looks pale, gets very irritable and pulls their legs up to the abdomen because of abdominal discomfort/pain.

Anaphylaxis

A severe allergic reaction can occur suddenly, and usually within 15 minutes, however anaphylaxis can occur several hours after vaccine administration. Early signs of anaphylaxis include: redness and/or itching of the skin, swelling (hives), breathing difficulties and a sense of distress.

Vaccine safety

All vaccines used in Australia have been through a safety testing process before being licensed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This is to ensure that each vaccine is safe to administer and proven to be effective based on clinical trials. You can obtain more information about vaccines and reactions to vaccines from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) (external site) or Department of Health (Commonwealth) immunisation (external site).

Reporting reactions

The WA Department of Health has system that allows both health professionals and members of the public to report any serious or unexpected adverse event (reaction) following immunisation (AEFI).

Report adverse events following immunisation in WA.