Question
After receiving the BCG vaccine, the vaccination site on the infant’s body has become red and swollen, and they have recently shown abnormal crying and sleep disturbances. Some opinions suggest that this is a normal reaction within one month after vaccination. Is this situation true? How should one determine if an infant’s sleep issues are related to the vaccine?
Answer
Typically, about a month after receiving the BCG vaccine, the vaccination site goes through a process of forming a pustule and then scabbing over. However, this process does not usually cause the infant to experience crying or sleep issues. If an infant has poor sleep, other possible causes should be considered first, such as calcium deficiency, inadequate feeding, or constipation. Especially in winter when sunlight is insufficient, calcium absorption is limited, and calcium supplementation should start from 15 days after birth. Infants with calcium deficiency may exhibit poor night sleep and crying.