Vaccine and hives

[Cheshire]

Hi Dr. Sears,

Thank you so much for participating in the forums!  What a great asset we have in you and all of the other experts.

I have a quick question.  My 22 month old just received her 3rd DTaP shot on Friday (that is the only vax she received that day).  On Sunday she broke out in hives on her shoulder and today the hives have spread across her back and are now on her other shoulder.  We are treating with Benedryl and after talking to her ped's office we are taking a wait and see approach. 

Could these be from the vax? 

Looking back over the weekend she has not received any new foods or medicines - everything is the same and the only difference we can see is the vax. 

I just wanted to ask how long after a vax can hives develop?

Thanks again!

[DrBobSears]

Yes I think you have to assume it was the vax.  Since pertussis isn't dangerous beyond 6 months of age, there isn't much risk in not getting the next two doses.  Plus, tetanus is so rare that you could risk not finishing for that either.

[Cheshire]

Thank you!  Just curious - if a child has a reaction to the DTaP are there any other vaxes to watch out for???

[DrBobSears]

No, there wouldn't be any higher risk of hives from other vaccines that I'm aware of

[fitmommy]

Just wanted to chime in & say i hope u report her reaction to the VAERS website

http://vaers.hhs.gov/index