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Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, poliomyelitis and serious Hib infection vaccines (DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib and DTaP-IPV-Hib)

Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, poliomyelitis and serious Hib infection vaccines (DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib and DTaP-IPV-Hib)

Description

Vaccination is the best protection against these diseases and their complications:

The Québec Immunization Program provides for the administration of a DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib vaccine at 2 months of age and at 4 months of age, followed by a DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine at 1 year of age. To be fully protected against these diseases, a child must receive all the doses provided for in the regular immunization schedule.

Symptoms

Some symptoms may be caused by the vaccine, e.g. redness at the injection site. Other problems may occur by chance and are not related to the vaccine, e.g. cold, gastro, headache.

DTaP-HB-IPV-Hib vaccine and DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine are safe. Most reactions are harmless and do not last long.

The nature and frequency of possible reactions to vaccine
Frequency	Possible reaction to the vaccine
In most cases (more than 50% of children)	Pain at the injection site Agitation and unusual crying
Very often (less than 50% of children)	Redness and swelling at the injection site Fever, irritability, drowsiness (sleepiness), loss of appetite
Often (less than 10% of children)	Swelling affecting the entire member on the 4^th dose
Sometimes (less than 1% of children)	Small lump for a few weeks at the injection site
Rarely (less than 1 child in 1,000)	Convulsions, most commonly accompanied by fever Episodes similar to loss of consciousness (paleness, weakness, lack of reaction)
Very rarely (less than 1 child in 10,000)	Sterile abscess at the injection site Intense pain and weakness in the arm for several weeks

What to do after vaccination

Tips to follow immediately following vaccination

Wait 15 minutes before leaving premises where vaccine is received. If an allergic reaction occurs, the symptoms will appear a few minutes after the vaccination.

If you feel side effects, immediately inform the person giving the vaccine. That person will be able to treat you immediately.

Tips to follow at home

If you experience redness, pain or swelling at the injection site, apply a cold, damp compress on it.

Use medication for fever or discomfort if needed.

When to seek medical help

See a doctor if one of the following applies to you:

You experience serious and unusual symptoms
Your symptoms get worse instead of improving
Your symptoms last over 48 hours