Numbing cream can help block the pain sensation when getting a shot! Apply 4% lidocaine cream at least 30 minutes before your child’s vaccination. This can be done at home or on your way to the visit. You can buy numbing cream over the counter in drugstores, at pharmacies or online. Check with the office to find out the exact location of the shot (usually the upper leg for babies under 12 months, and the upper arm for children age 1 and older). Apply the cream to an area of skin about the size of a quarter, and then cover it with a transparent film dressing (sold at drugstores) or plastic wrap.
