Reaction to DTAP

[cameragirl]

My mother and I both react very badly to the newer formulation of DTAP. We were both vaccinated a few years ago after the change, and had very severe swelling, pain, and fever that caused us to go to the ER for treatment. Both of us were told to NOT get the shot again, because we were on the edge of a serious reaction.

DD is 5 and is due for her vaccinations for school. We put off the vaccinations at the 4 year appointment, so she is due for DTAP. I am concerned about a reaction, though. Both times she has had it, she had a low-grade fever, pain, and was visibly uncomfortable for a few days after. Because her grandma and I both had progressively worse reactions to tetanus boosters that got MUCH worse with the new formulation, I don't know if I should allow a booster. I'd appreciate any advice.

[mama to 2 girls]

Only you can make the decision but if you want my 2 cents worth then I would have to say, don't do it. I've heard of a lot of kids reacting badly to the older they got and with each extra dose they received. I started at 12 mos. with dd1 with 1 dose of DTaP and I did go back for a 2nd and 3rd dose every 4-6 mos. but that was the only type of vaccine she received and I stopped at 3 doses because while she didn't react with a fever, she did come down with a cold and cough within a of couple of weeks EVERY time she received a dose. Now I know kids can get colds frequently but I was a major germaphobe and never took her anywhere.  But that's just me I am extremely particular about everything.  Hopefully someone else can give you some more guidance than I can. 

[emmy526]

Imo, you should hold off until you are completely comfortable with your decision.  You can always go in to get it later, but you can't take it back once its done.

[Bokonon]

My son had a reaction to his 5th DTaP and was sick for months afterwards.  You are in California, so you can file a philosophical exemption with your child's school.  Personally, I wouldn't give a child that vaccine with your family history.

[cameragirl]

Thank you. I was thinking of getting the other two that she is due for and does not react to, but this one was bugging me.