When Vaccination Really Needs to Be Postponed: The Ministry of Health Named Only a Few Reasons
The presence of a runny nose or a slight increase in temperature in a child is not a reason to postpone a scheduled vaccination. This was reminded by the Ministry of Health, noting that one of the most common reasons for unjustified vaccination delays remains parents waiting for the child's "ideal" health condition.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that WHO and Ministry of Health recommendations clearly state that the presence of a mild runny nose and a slight fever (WHO — up to 38.5°C, Ministry of Health — up to 38.0°C) is not a contraindication for scheduled vaccination.
At the same time, the list of real absolute contraindications to vaccinations in Ukraine is very limited and corresponds to international recommendations. They include:
- acute illnesses with a high temperature above 38.0°C (vaccination is postponed until recovery),
- severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine dose or a known allergic reaction to one of the vaccine components,
- severe immunodeficiency states — in the case of vaccination with live vaccines (potentially dangerous). Administration of inactivated vaccines is safe, but immunity may not develop in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, when taking high doses of steroid hormones, when taking immunosuppressive drugs, and in people living with HIV,
- also, during pregnancy, MMR vaccination (against measles, mumps, rubella) and other vaccines containing live viruses should not be given.
The ministry explained that postponing vaccination due to minor ailments creates a syndrome of delayed vaccination, which disrupts the vaccination schedule. Eventually, it needs to be caught up.
Parents are advised to consult with a family doctor or pediatrician regarding indications and possible contraindications for vaccination in each specific case.
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