Common Reactions to Immunisation

The following information is produced by the Department of Human Services and may also be found on their website at: www.health.vic.gov.au/immunisation.

Note: It is important to remain at the clinic for 15 minutes after immunisation.

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis/Polio Vaccine

• Generally unhappy for 24 hours
• Decreased appetite
• Drowsiness

Meningococcal serogroup C Vaccine

• Mild temperature (below 39C)
• Crying, irritability
• Drowsiness
• Headache (usually in adolescent/adult)

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae Type b) / Hepatitis B Vaccine
Reactions are uncommon and, if they occur, it is soon after immunisation:

• Mild temperature (below 39C)

MMR Vaccine (Measles/Mumps/Rubella)
The following may occur six to 11 days after immunisation and last less than 48 hours:

• Mild temperature (below 39C)
• Faint rash (not infectious)
• Head cold and/or runny nose
• Cough and/or puffy eyes
• Drowsiness
• Swelling of salivary glands may occur three weeks after immunisation

Hib Vaccine (Haemophilus influenzae Type b)
Reactions are uncommon and, if they occur, it is soon after immunisation:

• Mild temperature (below 39C)

Pneumococcal Vaccine

• Redness or discomfort at the injection site
• Mild temperature (below 39C)

Chickenpox Vaccine

• Mild temperature (below 39C)
• Mild chickenpox-like rash may develop five to 26 days after immunisation

Contact Details

For further information please contact the Immunisation Coordinator by phone on 03 5320 5850 or email suevanstyn@ballarat.vic.gov.au