The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommend influenza vaccinations for almost everyone over the age of 6 months. Flu shots contain inactivated, or killed, forms of the three viruses the CDC expects to see in the general population. These include a strain of influenza B, the 2009 H1N1 virus that started the 2009 epidemic and an H3N2 virus. Parents need to be aware of some potential reactions to these injections.
Localized Reaction
Children may complain of redness, swelling, itching or soreness at the site where the vaccine was injected. These complaints are typically short-lived, lasting only one or two days after the shot. Consumer Reports recommends applying a cool moist cloth over the painful area and giving acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort.
Fainting
Many children are anxious about their flu shot, and some faint right after receiving the injection. Once the youngster is able to lie down for a few minutes with her legs elevated, she should recover completely. However, any significant changes in behavior or mental status should be reported to the doctor, says Flu.gov.
Fever
Children may develop a mild fever for a day or two after a flu shot. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can bring the temperature down, advises Consumer Reports. If the fever continues into the third day or worsens, it's time to notify the doctor. Afluria, a specific flu vaccine that causes high fevers and febrile seizures in children, should not be given to youngsters under the age of 8 years, according to the CDC.
Muscle Aches
The influenza vaccine can cause muscle aches that begin shortly after the injection and last for a day or two, says Consumer Reports. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can relieve the discomfort.
Respiratory Problems
Some children develop a mild cough, hoarseness or eye redness and itching shortly after receiving a flu shot. These symptoms should resolve within a day or two. However, the same symptoms are associated with anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that typically begins within the first few hours of the injection, says Flu.gov. It's important to seek medical attention right away if a child's cough and hoarseness are accompanied by breathing problems, facial swelling, hives, weakness and dizziness.
Neurological Problems
In 1976, a different type of inactivated influenza vaccine for swine flu was associated with a severe neurologic illness called Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Although it's unclear whether the vaccine actually caused the muscle paralysis and weakness of Guillain-Barre, the CDC acknowledges the possibility for the 2010 to 2011 flu season.
