Question
My baby received the DPT combined vaccine (boosted dose) yesterday, and after a bath last night, redness appeared at the injection site. Today, the redness has expanded to about 5 centimeters and there is a warm, tingling sensation. Is this a severe symptom? Do I need to go to the hospital for a consultation?
Answer
It is common for redness to appear around 3 weeks after receiving the BCG vaccine, forming a small white pustule, and possibly causing lymph node swelling. These are normal reactions and usually resolve within 2 months. If there is a pustule or ulceration at the redness site, do not apply ointment or bandage; just maintain local hygiene. Clothing should not be too tight. If necessary, heat compress or have the doctor drain pus to promote healing. These reactions generally do not affect the child’s health.