Serious Problems
Serious problems can occur with DTaP vaccine. These problems are extremely rare. In fact, they occur so rarely that it is hard to tell if they are caused by the vaccine. Possible serious problems can include:
- Serious allergic reaction (less than one out of a million doses)
- Long-term seizures, coma, or lowered consciousness
- Permanent brain damage.
Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare with any vaccine. If one were to occur, it would most likely be within a few minutes to a few hours after the injection. Signs can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hoarseness or wheezing
- Hives
- Paleness
- Weakness
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness.
If a high fever or
seizure were to occur, it would usually be within a week after the injection.
If any of these serious problems do occur, call a doctor or get the patient to a doctor immediately. Tell your doctor what happened, the date and time it happened, and when the DTaP vaccination was given.
The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
In the rare event that you or your child has a serious reaction to any vaccine, including the DTaP vaccine, a federal program has been created to help you pay for the care of those who have been harmed.
For details about the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, call 1-800-338-2382.
Previous
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print