What vaccination site reactions can you expect? A typical reaction in a patient who has been previously vaccinated with vaccinia includes the appearance of a small swelling in 2-3 days that may enlarge to 1-2 inches across, a small blister or pustule after 5-7 days, and healing with little scarring within 2-3 weeks. Some patients may have very little skin reaction. Often the leg that received the vaccine may become swollen. Swollen or tender lymph nodes (“glands”) in the groin may be felt. A fever to 100-101F may occur on the second or third day.