Sometimes a shot (injection) can cause swelling, soreness, or itching in the skin or muscle. The area may feel hard or bumpy. This is called an injection-site reaction. It might start right after the shot or 1–2 days later. 

Injection-site reactions usually go away on their own after a few days.

• If your child has pain, and your health care provider says it's OK, you can give acetaminophen (Tylenol^® or a store brand) or ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, or a store brand). Follow the package directions for how much to give and how often. Don't give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months old.
• If the health care provider recommended an ointment or medicine by mouth for itching, use it as directed.
• For swelling or itching, place an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the injection site for up to 10 minutes 3–4 times a day. Do not put ice directly on the skin.

Your child:

• Develops a fever
• Has swelling, soreness, and itching that don't start to improve after a few days
• Has trouble moving the arm or leg where the shot was given

Is an injection-site reaction the same as an allergic reaction? No, an injection-site reaction is different from an allergic reaction. An injection-site reaction only involves the skin or muscle. An allergic reaction can affect the whole body and cause serious symptoms, like hives, itching, stuffy nose, watery eyes, or trouble breathing.

Can kids who have an injection-site reaction get shots in the future? Kids can usually get shots in the future. They won't necessarily have an injection-site reaction again the next time they get a shot.