Q: My 7-month-old baby has a runny nose. Can they still get their delayed 6-month vaccines (DTaP and Pneumococcal)?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 7-month-old baby had their 6-month vaccinations delayed for nearly a month due to stomach flu and a bad cold. We rescheduled them for this week to receive the DTaP and pneumococcal vaccines, but my baby developed a very runny nose yesterday. Can a baby still receive their vaccinations while having cold symptoms?
Answer:
It can be stressful when an infant is sick for weeks and falls behind on their immunization schedule.
In general, if an infant has a runny nose but is otherwise active, feeding well, and free of a fever or breathing difficulties, they can usually still receive their vaccinations.
Here is what you should consider regarding vaccination eligibility:
When vaccination usually proceeds: Mild symptoms—such as a runny nose or a slight cough—without a fever typically do not interfere with the body's immune response to vaccines or increase the risk of side effects.
When vaccination should be postponed: If your baby has a fever (38°C / 100.4°F or higher), breathing difficulties, severe fussiness, marked lethargy, or significantly reduced feeding and sleep, vaccines are usually delayed until recovery.
The pediatrician will evaluate your baby's physical condition on the day of the visit before administering any shots. To avoid an unnecessary trip, you can call the clinic ahead of your appointment to let them know about the runny nose and confirm whether you should bring your baby in as planned.
Comfort measures you can take at home right now:
Clear the nasal passages: Use saline nasal drops or spray followed by gentle suction with an aspirator, especially before feeding and sleeping.
Maintain indoor humidity: Keep room humidity levels around 40% to 60% to ease nasal congestion.
Ensure adequate hydration: Offer breast milk or formula frequently.
Monitor closely: Check your baby's temperature and breathing rate regularly.
Seek medical care promptly if you notice any of the following warning signs:
A fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
Rapid breathing, wheezing, or visible retractions (skin pulling in tightly between or below the ribs)
Significantly decreased intake (less than half of their normal feeding volume) or no wet diapers for 8 hours or longer
Extreme irritability that cannot be consoled, or unusual floppiness/lethargy
Start by helping clear your baby's nasal passages, and contact your pediatrician's office to discuss their current symptoms before heading to your appointment.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
