After your immunisation - NIP8870
Information for teenagers and adults about what may happen after they are immunised, and what they can do to help with any symptoms.
The full resource:
Information for teenagers and adults
How you may feel after the immunisation and what can help
Serious immunisation reactions are very rare. Some people can get reactions that are the body's normal response to immunisation. These usually go away after a day or so, and are set out in the table below.
| What you may feel | What can help | When this could start |
|
Swelling and pain at the injection site (hard and sore to touch) Heavy arm |
Place a cold, wet cloth, or ice pack where the injection was given. Leave it on for a short time Do not rub the injection site |
Within 6-24 hours |
|
Feeling unwell or tired A fever or aching muscles* |
Rest and drink plenty of fluids Because paracetamol or ibuprofen can interfere with your immune response to a vaccine, only take them for relief of significant discomfort or high fever. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from your healthcare professional |
Within 6–24 hours * These symptoms may not be related to the vaccine, and could be signs of an unrelated illness. Seek medical advice if you are concerned. |
| MMR vaccine – a rash and fever (very rare) | No treatment is required. The rash is not infectious. | Between 5 and 12 days after immunisation |
Covid-19 vaccine – if you have received a Covid-19 vaccine your vaccinator will provide you specific information on reactions to look out for.
If you have any concerns after your immunisation
- talk to your family doctor or nurse
- call Healthline on 0800 611 116 anytime, or call your after hours medical centre
- in an emergency, call 111 for an ambulance and make sure you tell them what vaccine(s) you received.
It is important to inform your vaccinator about any unexpected symptoms after your immunisation.
Health professionals should report suspected reactions to the Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring (CARM) but you can also report these by visiting their website otago.ac.nz/carm
To book your next vaccine, visit info.health.nz/bookavaccine or phone 0800 28 29 26
For more information go to Health Information and Services