5 Tips Before Taking Your Baby for Vaccination

Dr. Sandip Gupta

If you are taking your child for a vaccine, save these five tips. Loose clothes – dress the child in loose clothes so the vaccination site is easy to expose and the child stays comfortable. Feed before the vaccine – feed the child half an hour to an hour before the vaccine so the child stays comfortable and does not cry too much. Don't forget the vaccine card – the vaccine is given after checking on the card which vaccines have already been given, and the due date for the next vaccine is also written down for you. You can also take a photo of the vaccine card so that you have proof in case the card is lost. Tell the doctor about illness, medicines and past reactions – if the child has any sickness or is on any medicine, definitely tell the doctor. It is also very important to tell the doctor if the child has had a reaction to any vaccine earlier. Get the paracetamol dose written in advance – children often get fever, pain or swelling after vaccination, so get the correct paracetamol dose written by the doctor and give the child the correct dose of the correct strength. Relevant for: parents preparing for a child's vaccination visit; parents asking what to carry and how to dress the baby for a vaccine; parents asking whether to feed the baby before vaccination; parents wanting to know why the vaccine card matters and what to do if it is lost; parents whose child is unwell, on medication, or has reacted to a vaccine before; and parents wanting to be ready for fever and pain after the vaccine. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician about your child's vaccination schedule and the correct medicine and dose for your child.