Symptoms after the polio vaccine

A tender or swollen injection site is a local response and usually settles as the body adjusts. Some children may be unsettled, sleepy, or have a mild fever for a short time. Oral polio vaccine may not cause a noticeable reaction. These symptoms are different from polio, and receiving the vaccine is intended to protect against poliovirus rather than cause the illness it prevents.

Offer fluids and allow the child to rest. Keep clothing loose around a sore injection site and observe how the child is behaving, drinking, and breathing. Check the temperature if the child feels hot. Ask a healthcare professional before giving fever or pain medicine, particularly for a young baby or a child with another illness. Keep the vaccination record and tell the clinic about any previous reaction before the next dose.

Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse, or a child who cannot be woken normally. Contact a clinician promptly if fever is concerning, symptoms are worsening, the child is drinking poorly, has repeated vomiting, or you are worried about a reaction. A healthcare professional can distinguish a vaccine reaction from an unrelated infection.

Which reactions are expected after this vaccine? What should I use for comfort, and when should I call? Does this reaction change the timing or type of a future dose?