Question
My child has developed yellow bean-sized bumps on their arm. A small bump appeared at the injection site when they received the hepatitis B vaccine. Initially, I didn’t pay much attention, but it later turned into a lump. Now it seems to have shed some skin, revealing red, tender flesh underneath. It feels soft and there appears to be something thick inside, but it’s not clear. The baby doesn’t seem to have any special reactions. What kind of assistance do I need? Do I need to go to the hospital?
Answer
It is normal for redness, swelling, or dark red small nodules to appear at the injection site after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. These nodules may develop into a pustule, which will rupture on its own, scab over, and then fall off after a few weeks, leaving a scar. There is no need for special treatment in this situation. If the lump appears due to improper injection technique and is located within the fat layer, it may form a lump. Solutions include applying hot water compresses for about a month or directly placing potato slices on the lump to help relieve the condition.