Cause and triggering factor should not be confused. Vaccination does not cause Dravet syndrome. As we already said it, the usual cause is a de novo genetic mutation of the SCN1A gene (see Question 2). It has long been believed that vaccination was linked to Dravet syndrome since the first seizure often matched the first vaccine’s shot. Actually, we can consider vaccination as a trigger, like fever, but not as the cause (see Question 9).
The exact mechanisms linking vaccination to seizures are not fully understood. Vaccination-induced seizures do not change the course of Dravet syndrome at all, should it be in terms of severity or cognitive outcome.
In every country, vaccination is a legal obligation. Before your child undergoes vaccination, discuss it with your child’s doctor so as to manage the risk of seizures.