Concerns After Vaccination
An 8-month-old female infant is reported to be in good health with no existing medical conditions. Can exposure to the rabies vaccine lead to rabies infection? Yesterday, our cat scratched our baby on the head. Concerned for her safety, we took her to the hospital that evening, where she was administered the rabies vaccine, Verorab, in both arms and Equirab in her buttocks. Thankfully, our cat remains healthy and unharmed. However, this morning, the baby has been inconsolable and refuses to breastfeed. What might be the underlying cause of her distress?
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 1:40:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned after your baby received the rabies vaccine, especially given the recent cat scratch. Here's a brief overview:
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Rabies Vaccination Safety: The rabies vaccine (such as Verorab) and rabies immune globulin (like Equirab) do not cause rabies infection. They are designed to stimulate the immune system to protect against rabies infection in cases of exposure.
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Distress After Vaccination: It's not uncommon for infants to experience irritability or distress after vaccinations. This can be due to several factors, including the normal immune response to the vaccine, soreness at the injection site, or even the stress of the hospital visit.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your baby's symptoms. Crying and fussiness can occur, but if she shows signs of severe distress, high fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C), unusual lethargy, or a lack of responsiveness, you should seek immediate help.
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Comfort Measures: You can try to comfort your baby by holding her, gently rocking her, or using a pacifier. If she seems to be in pain, cuddling her and gently massaging her legs and back may help soothe her.
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Hydration: If she refuses to breastfeed, ensure she stays hydrated, as it's important. Offer her small amounts of expressed breast milk in a cup or through a syringe if necessary.
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Keep Communication Open: If her distress continues or worsens, contacting a pediatrician for guidance is always a wise step. They can offer tailored advice and check for any underlying issues.
It’s normal to feel worried, especially after a vaccination. You're doing the right thing by monitoring her and seeking advice. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to ask.
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