Does the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine cause fever with every dose?
Sep 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. Not everyone will experience fever after receiving each dose of the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine; however, some individuals may develop a fever, which is considered a common adverse reaction. If the fever is low-grade, no special treatment is required. It is recommended to drink more hot water at home, and symptoms usually resolve spontaneously after 2–3 days of rest. If a high fever develops, exceeding 38.5°C, antipyretic treatment should be administered.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. Receiving the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine does not necessarily cause fever with every dose; however, some individuals may experience fever, which is considered a common adverse reaction. If the fever is low-grade, no special treatment is required. Drinking plenty of warm water at home and resting usually allows symptoms to resolve spontaneously within 2–3 days. However, if a high fever develops—exceeding 38.5°C—antipyretic treatment should be administered.
The 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine contains inactivated bacteria designed to stimulate the body's immune response. Since these vaccines use killed pathogens, they are generally non-infectious. Nevertheless, in individuals with weakened immunity, infection and subsequent fever may occasionally occur, representing another relatively common adverse reaction. When necessary, blood tests including complete blood count (CBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) should be performed.
1. Low-grade fever
No specific treatment is needed. Drink plenty of warm water at home and ensure adequate rest; symptoms typically resolve on their own within 2–3 days. If low-grade fever persists, antipyretic measures should be taken. Physical cooling methods or oral antipyretic medications can help alleviate symptoms. Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.
2. High fever
If a high fever exceeding 38.5°C occurs, antipyretic treatment is required. This may include physical cooling and oral antipyretic drugs. Common physical cooling methods include applying fever-reducing patches, wiping the body with lukewarm water, and using ice packs on areas with strong heat dissipation such as the forehead and armpits. Commonly used oral antipyretics include ibuprofen suspension and compound paracetamol preparations.
3. Infection
If secondary infection occurs after injection, prompt medical attention is necessary. Under a doctor’s supervision, intravenous antibiotic therapy may be required.
If fever occurs after vaccination, appropriate symptomatic management should be implemented based on the clinical situation to avoid delays in treatment.
