My little guy got his 12 month shots yesterday and has been running a fever all day (not too high, highest has been 101.2). I know this can be a normal reaction, but he also developed a runny nose and had a really loose stool (not normal for him at all). He's never really been sick before so I know I am probably overreacting, but do I need to call his doctor or should I just give it some more time? I'm thinking he was coming down with something yesterday and then had the shots on top of that because I have a sore throat and runny nose today too. They wanted him to get 6 shots, but I declined 3 and said we'd come back for them in a month, 6 at once seemed excessive for his little system. Please don't make this a to vaccinate or not debate, I know the risks and still choose to vaccinate him over the risk of him catching one of the debilitating and potentially deadly diseases that are now making a comeback due to the no vaccinations trend. Thanks!
Thank you all for the advice. We are just going to wait it out and see how he feels tomorrow. We've been so fortunate that he has hardly ever been sick, so it's a bit scary! And Emily, I am sorry you didn't like my last sentence, it was made to avoid those that would feel the need to try to convert me to the anti vaccine movement when I just wanted advice on my sick little guy. My statements are true, as research has proven although I am sure I could have said it nicer. If you have any research done by a reputable source (aka not Jenny McCarthy or a website, I'm talking medical journals, nursing journals, pharmacology journals, etc) I would be happy to read and consider it. As it is, I have yet to see any proof that vaccines are "sometimes" debilitating or deadly. They are RARELY, and I am aware of that. Feel free to message me any research you think would change my mind!
Sometimes, vaccines can have debilitating and deadly risks, too.
I'm sorry your little guy is sick.
When you say things like your last sentence-you make it sound like you do want a debate. Very accusatory and uninformed.
Just thought you should be aware...
Again, I'm sorry he feels bad.
I wouldn't worry, a fever after vaccination is normal, and actually a good thing. It is a sign that his immune system is working on the antibodies to the vaccines.
Whether a bug or a reaction to the shots, it doesn't sound too bad. Call if you're worried, but I'd just stick it out. BTW, research shows that Tylenol after vaccines makes them less effective (though MANY offices still recommend it--Google it if you wish), so I'd skip it unless the fever gets high (I use ibuprofin for a high fever). Also, 3 shots per visit is my max too. :) A reasonable request that I think most docs are cool with. Hope you both feel better soon!
Riley wrote a wonderful little essay a while back, explaining why a child getting a little fever after vaccinations was actually a good thing. Maybe you could dig that up if you can find Riley's answers.
Dawn
My son got really sick after his first set of vaccines...fever for about a week and a runny nose. I don't remember if he had a loose stool. But it cleared up. I knew it was the vaccines because he got the shots and by the time we got home, about 45 minutes later, he was burning up. I think it's a normal reaction but nevertheless, keep monitoring his temp and any other possible (more severe) side effects. Hope he feels better!!
Has he had anything new recently? My lil guy got loose stools around that same age due to introduction to fluid milk. Or it could be an unrelated virus. Just call his dr and ask about it. Our dr is really good about answering questions over the phone and seeing us whenever it would make us feel more comfortable.
ETA the fever sounds totally normal.
