The influenza VIS states that giving pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and inactivated influenza vaccine simultaneously to young children may increase the risk of febrile seizures. Can we continue to give these two vaccines at the same time?

Yes, you can. Some, but not all, studies have reported increased rates of febrile seizures among children, especially those age 12 through 23 months, who received simultaneous vaccination with IIV and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13, Pfizer) or DTaP vaccine (Daptacel, Infanrix, Pediarix, Pentacel), when compared with children who received these vaccines separately. However, because of the risks associated with delaying either of these vaccines, ACIP does not recommend administering them at separate visits or deviating from the recommended vaccine schedule in any way. The risk of febrile seizure following coadministration of influenza vaccine with the newer PCV15 or PCV20 pneumococcal conjugate vaccines has not been evaluated.

Febrile seizures may be triggered by any cause of fever and occur in up to 5% of all children, and they are generally benign. Healthcare providers should be prepared to answer parents’ questions about febrile seizures and fever when discussing vaccinations. Here is a CDC resource that addresses these concerns: www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/febrile-seizures.html.