It can lead to severe skin infection, scars, pneumonia, brain damage, or death. One shot is recommended between ages 1-12 years old, and is usually administered after the child's first birthday. A series of two shots, four to eight weeks apart, are suggested for children ages 13-18 who were not previously inoculated and have not had chickenpox. Soreness at the site of the injection, and occasionally a low-grade fever. In 4 percent of the children vaccinated, a minor rash can occur, often around the area of the shot.
Children cough uncontrollably and make a whooping sound as they try to breathe.
Whooping cough can lead to pneumonia and seizures. Tetanus is a potentially deadly illness that causes painful tightening of the muscles and locking of the jaw. A new pertussis vaccine was issued in 1996 and has fewer side effects than the old vaccine. Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause acute short-term symptoms, such as loss of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting, jaundice, pain in muscles, joints and stomach, and tiredness. It can lead to liver failure and liver cancer.