I've heard that children who are taking antibiotics for an illness — like an ear infection — should not get a vaccine at the same time. Is this true? – Ishani Not usually. For most kids, taking antibiotics for a mild illness (like an ear infection) shouldn't keep them from getting their vaccinations on schedule. Antibiotics do not interfere with the ingredients in vaccines or cause a bad reaction in a child who has just been vaccinated. Kids taking antibiotics for a moderate or severe illness should not get vaccinated until they recover from the illness — but this applies to all children who are sick, not just those who are taking antibiotics. That's because it can be hard to figure out whether symptoms like a fever following a vaccination are a side effect of the vaccine or due to the illness itself. As soon as a child is feeling better, even if he or she is on antibiotics, the vaccine can and should be given. If you're concerned about your child's health and the safety of getting vaccinated, talk to your doctor or the person administering the vaccine. Back to Articles Related Articles A Kid's Guide to Shots If you're old enough to read this, you've probably had most of your shots. But even bigger kids may need a shot once in a while. Find out more about them in this article for kids. Read More Understanding Medicines and What They Do Medicines can cure, stop, or prevent disease; ease symptoms; or help in the diagnosis of illnesses. This article describes different types of medications and offers tips on taking them. Read More Is There a Connection Between Vaccines and Autism? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Immunizations Missing out on shots puts you at more serious risk than you might think. That one little "ouch" moment protects you from some major health problems. Read More 5 Tips for Surviving Shots If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips. Read More Immunization Schedule Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this immunization schedule as a handy reference. Read More Common Questions About Immunizations Immunizations have protected millions of children from potentially deadly diseases. Learn about immunizations and find out exactly what they do - and what they don't. Read More Your Child's Immunizations Immunizations protect kids from many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines your child needs to grow up healthy. Read More Does My Child Need an Antibiotic? (Video) Antibiotics are powerful medicines that can help kids feel better -- but only when they have certain illnesses. Find out if an antibiotic is right for your child. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.