What should I do if my child develops a fever after receiving the rabies vaccine?

Generally, fever in children after receiving the rabies vaccine may be caused by normal immune response following vaccination, mild irritation at the injection site, catching a chill after vaccination, acute upper respiratory tract infection, or secondary bacterial infection at the injection site. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment, medication, and other methods under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Normal immune response after vaccination: After the vaccine enters the body, the immune system is activated to produce an immune response, which may cause mild fever, usually low-grade. Allow the child to rest more, drink plenty of warm water to promote metabolism, and use physical cooling methods such as wiping the forehead and armpits with warm water if the temperature does not exceed 38.5°C. Symptoms typically resolve spontaneously within 1-2 days.

2. Mild irritation at the injection site: Local skin irritation during vaccination may cause mild inflammatory reactions accompanied by low-grade fever. Keep the injection site clean and dry, avoid scratching or rubbing, and avoid contact with water to prevent infection. Low-grade fever usually subsides as the local irritation diminishes.

3. Catching a chill after vaccination: A child's immunity may temporarily fluctuate after vaccination. If improperly protected against cold, it may lead to a chill and subsequent fever due to a cold. Ensure timely clothing adjustments to stay warm and avoid further exposure to cold. If the temperature exceeds 38.5°C, take fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen suspension drops, ibuprofen suspension, or pediatric Chai Gui antipyretic granules as directed by a physician.

4. Acute upper respiratory tract infection: During the vaccination period, if the child comes into contact with viruses or bacteria, it may lead to acute upper respiratory tract infection, causing symptoms such as fever and coughing. For viral infections, medications such as pediatric paracetamol chlorpheniramine granules, ribavirin granules, or pediatric Shugiao Qingre granules may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Secondary bacterial infection at the injection site: Improper skin care at the injection site after vaccination may allow bacterial invasion, causing infection with symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Follow medical advice to apply topical medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or compound polymyxin B ointment to the affected area.

In daily life, closely monitor the child's temperature and mental status. Avoid taking the child to crowded places after vaccination to reduce the risk of infection. Encourage a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits to supplement vitamins and aid in recovery.