Things to know for children getting Covid-19 vaccination

MALAYSIA's National Covid Immunisation Programme for Children (PICKids) began for children aged five to 11 years old on February 2, 2022.

As of May 27, up to 47.7 per cent of children in that age range have received at least one vaccination dose¹.

For children preparing to receive their first or second vaccination dose, there are a few important things they should take note of.

Firstly, it is not recommended to take any over-the-counter medicine such as paracetamol, before vaccination for the purpose of trying to prevent post Covid-19 vaccination symptoms². 

Following their Covid-19 vaccination, children may experience common symptoms that are usually mild and will resolve within a few days³. These symptoms are normal signs indicating that the body is building protection against the Covid-19 infection³.

Possible post Covid-19 vaccination symptoms include pain, redness and swelling at the site of injection³. Other symptoms include tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea³.

Some people experience no symptoms — everyone's reaction to the vaccine is different, so the absence of post Covid-19 vaccination symptoms does not mean that the vaccine is not working⁴.

Depending on the symptoms experienced, pain relievers like paracetamol, can be taken to treat symptoms of pain and fever post Covid-19 vaccination⁵.

In fact, the MOH and other public health authorities around the world⁵, have recommended usage of paracetamol to relieve post Covid-19 vaccination symptoms such as fever and headache⁶.

Paracetamol is suitable for all age groups, including children aged five and above⁶.

Other tips for children following their Covid-19 vaccination include taking care of the arm where the vaccine was injected⁷, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated⁸ and getting ample rest⁹.

If symptoms persist for more than a few days or become severe, consult healthcare professionals like doctors and pharmacists immediately for advice and do not delay treatment.

Ultimately, it is crucial for children to get vaccinated, especially with their return to school, so they can safely participate in sports, playdates and other group activities.

PM-MY-PAN-22-00076

The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader's own medical care.

References:

1. COVIDNOW. Vaccinations in Malaysia. 28 April 2022. Retrieved from link. 
2. CDC. Preparing for your COVID-19 vaccination. 19 August 2021. Retrieved from link
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Teens. August 2021. Retrieved from link.
4. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine, March 2021. Retrieved from link. 
5. WHO. COVID019 advice for the public: Getting vaccinated. 14 July 2021. Retrieved from link. 
6. Portal Rasmi MyHEALTH Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia. Paracetamol. 20 April 2012. Retrieved from link. 
7. 5 UNICEF South Asia. What to do before, during and after getting vaccinated for COVID-19, 2021. Retrieved from link.
8. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine, March 2021. Retrieved from link.
9. Public Health England. What to expect after your Covid-19 vaccination? June 2021. Retrieved from link.