Australia’s trusted immunisation experts
21 September 2023 | NewsMultiple vaccinations for children – new NCIRS resourceRead the full article
Some people may experience side effects, or adverse events, after getting a vaccine. Usually these are mild and go away on their own after 2–3 days.
After a baby or an infant gets a vaccine, they may experience some mild and temporary side effects:
After an older child or an adult gets a vaccine, they may experience some mild and temporary side effects:
Although routine use of paracetamol or ibuprofen after immunisations is not recommended, if your baby has a fever (temperature over 38 degrees) or is in pain, you can give paracetamol or ibuprofen. Follow the directions on the bottle.
You can get more information about fever here.
You or your child need to see a doctor if:
Like other vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines can also cause side effects. Usually these are mild and go away without treatment in 1–2 days. Currently two COVID-19 vaccines are being used in Australia: the Pfizer vaccine and the AsraZeneca vaccine. The most common side effects for both vaccines include:
Sometimes these flu-like side effects can mean that people struggle to carry out their usual activities for a day or so. It is important to adequately rest as needed after a COVID-19 vaccine. For more detailed information about the side effects of each vaccine, refer to:
After your COVID-19 vaccination (Comirnaty)
After your COVID-19 vaccination (COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca)
NCIRS COVID-19 vaccines: Frequently asked questions
COVID-19 vaccination program in Australia
Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation