How to Prepare Individuals with Autism for a Vaccine

• Talk with your healthcare provider – Bring up any questions you have.
• Share special needs – Inform the healthcare provider of your or your child’s diagnosis. Vaccine locations may be able to make accommodations for those with special needs to avoid lines, long wait times, and overcrowded spaces.
• Visual and behavioral supports – You may need to bring a portable visual schedule or written checklist which displays each step of the appointment. Plan on marking off each step of the appointment. Autism Speaks’ Parent’s Guide to Blood Draws for Children with Autism has helpful and clear examples. Bring something to do in case you’re waiting (e.g., iPad, drawing materials, preferred items). Bring something preferred to offer as a reward to earn after the shot (e.g., “First, small pinch. Then, iPad or favorite snack.”)
• COVID precautions – Bring a mask and remember to stay 6 feet away from others. Take extra safety precautions before your appointment to decrease your chances of contracting the virus. Postpone the appointment if you have or may have COVID-19.

Consider these tips when you arrive at the vaccination site and while receiving the shot:

• Simple language – Use simple, clear language to explain where you are going and what is happening at each step. Again, these suggestions must be tailored to the individual.
• Distraction – For some, distracting their attention or blocking their view of the inoculation site with a baseball cap may be helpful.
• Safety – Some individuals with autism may exhibit dangerous behavior during vaccine administration that may result in a crisis situation. Consult with your behavior analyst or other treatment professional for prevention and on-site safety techniques.
• Monitor – Immediately after receiving the shot, patients are required to wait on site for 15-30 minutes to be monitored for side effects.  Remember to incorporate this into your timeline and preparation.

After you receive the shot:

• Information – You will be given information about possible side effects, your second appointment (as needed), and your vaccine record card.
• Side effects:  Side effects such as fatigue, muscle ache, low-grade fever, headache may occur and are a normal part of the body’s immune response.  They may last 24 to 48 hours.  Many report stronger side effects after the second dose than the first dose.
• Follow CDC guidance – Read about what to expect after vaccination and contact your healthcare provider if you think you need to seek medical treatment.
• Monitor symptoms – Enroll in V-Safe to help you monitor your symptoms and remind you if you need a second shot.
• Continue COVID precautions – It will take a few weeks to develop immunity and for the vaccine to become effective. During this time and afterwards, continue to protect yourself and others by wearing a mask, social distancing, washing your hands, and making healthy lifestyle choices by following the CDC’s 10 things to do to stay safe.