Immunization is one cornerstone of modern medicine, but also one of the causes of common misconceptions among parents. Some people still believe that immunization is harmful to the child. But the consequences of them not getting immunized are severe, even life-threatening. While the immunization process is not without risks, it is very important for the health and welfare of your child. Hence, you should speak with a pediatrician about your immunization concern.
What to know about immunization
Immunization is simply injecting a vaccine into a person to create immunity against a specific disease. A vaccine creates immunity by stimulating an immune system response to generate antibodies. This action protects an individual against that specific disease. Therefore, the vaccination program provides an opportunity to immunize a child against a disease that could be life-threatening.
Why Immunize Your Child
Immunizations protect children from dangerous childhood diseases. Any of these diseases can cause serious complications and can even kill.
However, parents may still have questions about why vaccines are needed. Some may be concerned about vaccine safety because someone has misinformed them. That’s why it’s important to turn to your child’s doctor for information.
When should my child get immunized?
Babies are born with protection against some diseases because their mothers pass antibodies (proteins made by the body to fight disease) to them before birth. Breastfed babies continue to get more antibodies in breast milk. But in both cases, the protection is temporary.
Children get most of their shots during their first 2 years after birth. This is because many of these diseases are the most severe in the very young. Most newborns receive their first shot (hepatitis B) at birth before leaving the hospital, and they receive more at well-child checkups in the first 6 months after birth. Children also need shots before going to school.
On the other hand, older children and teens need vaccines as well as Parents and caregivers.
Children who are not immunized or who are behind on their shots are at risk of getting many preventable diseases. They can also spread these diseases to others who have not yet been immunized.
Which Immunizations do my children need?
It’s important to keep your children up to date on their vaccines. At First Care Medical Clinic, we proudly offer a variety of immunizations for children, adults, and seniors. Depending on your vaccination history, health history, and certain risk factors. Your practitioner may recommend any of the following immunizations:
- Polio
- Shingles
- Seasonal influenza (flu)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Human papillomavirus
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Pneumococcal (pneumonia)
- Meningococcal disease (meningitis)
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP)
What side effects will my child have after getting immunized?
There may be mild side effects, such as swelling, redness, and tenderness where the shot was given, but they do not last long. Your child may also have a slight fever and be fussy for a short time afterward. It is rare for side effects to be serious. However, call your child’s doctor right away if you have any concerns after vaccines are given.
Don’t delay!
To offer the best protection, your child needs to be vaccinated at the recommended times rather than delaying or splitting vaccines.