Contraindications to vaccinations and what to do if a child has a cough or runny nose?

Immunizations are essential for shielding kids from dangerous illnesses. But occasionally, a child’s health might prevent them from receiving a particular vaccination, or they might only be able to receive it temporarily, like when they have a runny nose or cough.

Parents can make more educated decisions regarding their child’s health by being aware of the common vaccination contraindications. It’s also critical to understand what to do in the event that your child becomes ill before a scheduled vaccination.

When thinking about your child’s next vaccination, this article will walk you through the main reasons why a vaccination might be delayed as well as how to treat minor illnesses like a cold or cough.

It’s important to be aware that certain medical conditions, such as a severe cough or runny nose, may be temporary contraindications to vaccinations for children. It is best to delay the vaccination and see a pediatrician if your child exhibits these symptoms. They’ll evaluate the circumstances, clarify when it’s safe to move forward, and provide direction to guarantee that your child’s health comes first while still adhering to crucial vaccination schedules.

True contraindications

Conditions in which vaccinations cannot be administered due to the child’s health are considered true contraindications.

Authentic contraindications can be classified into two categories: universal ones that pertain to all vaccinations, and specific ones that are specific to a given vaccination.

They can also be temporary, meaning that vaccination is only prevented for a set amount of time, or permanent, meaning that vaccination is completely canceled.

False contraindications

Subjective objections to vaccination are included in this category of contraindications. Parents as well as medical professionals may be the source. For instance, doctors may decide not to send a child for vaccination if they have dysbacteriosis or a runny nose, and parents may refuse to vaccinate if they believe their child is ill or allergic.

False contraindications include allergies, anemia, and encephalopathy, which are most frequently used as justification for a "medical exemption" from vaccinations. They are frequently not a cause to forgo vaccination.

When you should not vaccinate?

The following conditions prevent the administration of any vaccines:

  • Primary immunodeficiency conditions.
  • Oncopathologies.
  • Immunosuppressive therapy.
  • Acute diseases.
  • Exacerbations of chronic pathologies.
  • Severe reactions or complications after the previous administration of the vaccine – anaphylactic shock and other severe forms of allergy, fever above 40 degrees, local changes with a diameter greater than 8 cm, damage to the immune system, the appearance of vaccine-associated diseases.

Regarding particular contraindications, some of them are as follows:

Immunization

Restrictions

Less than 2 kg at birth (because the infant’s skin is too thin to receive vaccinations), and the existence of a keloid scar following the initial vaccination

Neurological conditions, convulsive syndrome, and epilepsy (ADS is used in place of the vaccine)

Against rubella, mumps, and measles

Thrombocytopenia, severe aminoglycoside allergy, and allergy to chicken eggs (for imported vaccines)

In opposition to hepatitis B

Yeast allergy, under two kilograms in weight

As a defense against Haemophilus influenzae

Tetanus toxoid hypersensitivity, up to six weeks of age

In opposition to rotavirus infection

Past instances of intestinal intussusception

When, despite unfavorable symptoms, vaccination can be done?

  • The presence of a non -diagram, a moderate or mild reaction to the previous introduction of a vaccine, acute respiratory infections with a mild course are not contraindications to vaccinations. If the disease is moderate or severe, the child can be vaccinated as soon as his condition improves.
  • The use of antibiotics is not an obstacle to vaccination. As is the use of endocrine, antiallergic, cardiac and other drugs needed as supportive treatment for chronic pathologies. If steroid drugs are used locally (inhalations, sprays, eye drops, ointments), this will also not be an obstacle to the administration of the vaccine.
  • Also, contact of the child with a person who has an infectious disease is not considered a contraindication.
  • If the baby has been transfused with blood products, then the administration of live vaccines is postponed for a certain period (it depends on the type of blood product and its volume), since antibodies enter the baby"s body with the transfusion, which interfere with the development of immunity to live vaccine viruses.
  • If the child has hemophilia, then intramuscular administration of the vaccine is dangerous due to the risk of bleeding, so the vaccine is given subcutaneously in a place where it is possible to press the injection area. The child is also prescribed drugs to support coagulation.
  • Cases of reaction to the vaccine or seizures in a close relative are not an obstacle to the introduction of DPT. If the child"s neurological diseases are stable (developmental delay, cerebral palsy), he can be vaccinated.
  • A positive Mantoux reaction should not be an obstacle to vaccination against mumps, rubella and measles.
  • If the child has undergone surgery, it is recommended to start vaccination 3-4 weeks after it.
  • If the baby has mild anemia, he can be vaccinated.
  • As for allergic diseases, vaccination in their presence, on the contrary, is recommended, since infections in them are much more severe (for example, if a child with asthma gets whooping cough).
  • There is no need to refuse vaccinations to a child with congenital malformations if his condition is compensated.

Contraindications to Vaccinations What to Do If a Child Has a Cough or Runny Nose?
High fever or recent illness Consult a doctor before vaccination
Severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine Keep the child hydrated and use a humidifier
Weakened immune system If symptoms persist, visit a pediatrician
Severe asthma or breathing issues Rest and avoid physical activities

It is crucial for children’s safety to be aware of the contraindications when it comes to vaccinations. It’s usually acceptable to give the vaccination to your child even if they just have a slight cold or cough, but it’s best to check with your doctor first. They are able to assess your child’s health and provide advice on whether to proceed with the shot now or in the future.

It may be necessary to postpone the vaccination in situations where more serious health problems, such as a fever or an ongoing infection, are present. The ideal time to reschedule will be determined in consultation with your healthcare provider.

In the end, immunizations are essential for shielding your child from harmful illnesses. You can put your child’s health and wellbeing first by making educated decisions about when it’s safe to vaccinate and when to wait.

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Svetlana Kozlova

Family consultant and family relationship specialist. I help parents build trusting relationships with their children and each other. I believe that a healthy atmosphere in the home is the key to happiness and harmony, which I share in articles and recommendations.

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