THE CHICKENPOX SHOT

(Prevents chickenpox, an illness with spots, itching and fever)

This shot is given only once: Between 12 and 18 months old.

This shot may cause your child to:

  • be fussy
  • be tired
  • have a little fever
  • have little spots
  • be sore where the shot was given

    (These symptoms may last 1 or 2 days)

    • Special note: If your child has spots after this shot, he/she must not get close to people with heart or liver transplants, nor should they get close to people with AIDS or people getting treatment for some type of cancer, until the spots have gone away.

    How to care for your child if there is a fever after the shot:

  • Give Tylenol or Motrin for children for fever and pain. Least expensive brands are okay. Ask your doctor how much to give your child! DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN!
  • Breastfeed or give formula, or a glass of water or juice, every 2 to 3 hours, and put on light clothing.
  • If it hurts where the shot was given, put ice or cold wet washcloths over the spot.

    • CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF YOUR CHILD:

  • has a fever of over 102 degrees under the arm for more than 24 hours
  • has convulsions

    • Produced by Theresa Cameranesi, FNP, and La Clínica del Cariño Family Health Care Center, Inc.
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