Tips for a less stressful shot visit

National Infant Immunization Week is April 27-May 4. To help educate the Campbell County, Wyoming community on the importance of immunizations, Campbell County Health experts at the Campbell County Medical Group Kid Clinic and Pediatrics Clinic have put together some videos and blog posts.

Making the choice to vaccinate your child is vital for their health and wellbeing. Even so, getting shots can still be stressful for you and your little one. Fortunately, these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), can help you support your child before, during and after shots.

• Before going to the doctor, pack a favorite toy and a blanket that your child uses regularly to comfort them.
• Help children see vaccines as a good thing. Never threaten your child with shots by saying, “If you misbehave I will have the nurse give you a shot.” Instead, remind children that vaccines can help keep them healthy.
• For older children, be honest with them and explain that shots can pinch or sting, but that it won’t hurt for long.
• At the doctor’s office, distract and comfort your child by cuddling, singing or talking softly.
• Smile and make eye contact with your child. Let them know that everything is OK.
• For older children, point out interesting things in the room to create distractions.

Sometimes children experience mild reactions from vaccines, such as pain at the injection site, a rash or fever. These reactions are normal and will soon go away.

After the shots, pay extra attention to your child for a few days. If you see something that concerns you, call you doctor.

Remember to schedule your child’s next visit. Staying current with your child’s immunizations provides the best protection against disease.

Holly Hink, APRN, CPNP, works at the Campbell County Medical Group Kid Clinic, a school-based pediatric clinic offering medical care for Campbell County, Wyoming. The clinic serves children ages 2 weeks to 18 years old; and counseling services for children 4 years old to 21 years old. It is located at 800 Butler Spaeth Rd., across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Gillette, Wyoming. The Kid Clinic is open Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit www.cchwyo.org/kidclinic.

The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between Campbell County Health and Campbell County School District.