Expert: David Olson, MD - 8/29/2004

Question
My 12 1/2 month old daughter received her chicken pox and mmr vaccine Aug. 13th.  10 days later she developed a high fever for two days and low grade for a day on Aug 27th I noticed bumps on her that resembled ant bites.  She also has a runny nose and a cough.  Which I have read are signs of Chicken pox.  At last count she had 10 but I think a couple more are starting.  Is she contagious and for how long?  Is there anything I should do to treat the bumps?  She is eating okay and her spirits are fine and she doesn't have a fever. Also I was wondering if my 3 year old could contract them even though he had the vaccine 18 months ago but with no symptoms at all. Is it normal to have this sort of reaction to the vaccine? Any information is welcomed. Thank you

Answer
Hi, Crystal,

The vaccine can cause bumps and fever, but usually before 10 days.  The MMR vaccine can cause a fever usually at about 10 days.  The rash of vaccine chickenpox is not contagious.  

My guess is that this is due to neither of the vaccines and is probably a summer-time viral illness, that can cause high fever and rash.  If she remains ill for a day or two more, best to see the doctor to get to the bottom of this.

Good luck, Dr. Olson