Can my child get vaccinated with a cold or fever?

Last reviewed: 2026-06-14

Quick answer

A mild cold or cough — with your child otherwise alert, eating and sleeping more or less normally — usually doesn't stop a scheduled vaccination. But if your child has a fever, postpone the jab until they've recovered, seeing a doctor first if needed. Minor symptoms don't weaken the vaccine or increase side effects; it's fever or acute illness that genuinely warrants waiting. If unsure, describe your child's condition to the staff before the jab and let them decide whether the day is suitable.

Does a runny nose or a cough mean no jab? It's a common misunderstanding — and one that leaves plenty of children needlessly delayed.

Mild symptoms: usually fine to proceed

Per Centre for Health Protection and Family Health Service guidance, if your child has only a mild cold or cough and is otherwise alert, eating, sleeping and passing stools more or less normally, vaccination can usually go ahead as planned. A minor upper-respiratory infection doesn't weaken the protection the vaccine provides, nor does it increase side effects.

Fever: postpone first

If your child has a fever, postpone the jab until they've recovered. Two reasons: a fever can be a sign of a more serious infection that should be dealt with first; and if a fever appears after the jab, it's hard to tell whether it's from the vaccine or the original illness. See a doctor if needed, and reschedule once your child is well.

Not sure? Let the staff decide

If you're unsure whether the day is suitable, the safest move is to bring your child to the clinic or MCHC anyway and describe their condition to the staff. Letting them assess and decide beats postponing on your own — because delaying without cause leaves your child more exposed during the gap.

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