Importance of vaccinations for children

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Importance of vaccinations for children

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines work by stimulating your child’s immune system to produce antibodies that fight off the germs that cause the disease. By getting vaccinated, your child can develop immunity without having to suffer from the actual illness.

 

What is Herd Immunity?

Vaccines are not only beneficial for your child but also for people around them. Some diseases, such as measles, mumps, and whooping cough, can spread easily from person to person. If your child is vaccinated, they are less likely to catch and transmit these diseases to others, especially those who are more vulnerable, such as babies, the elderly, or people with weak immune systems. This is called herd immunity, which helps prevent outbreaks and epidemics of preventable diseases.

 

Are Vaccines Safe?

Vaccines are safe and effective for children of all ages. They are rigorously tested and monitored for quality and safety before they are approved for use. The benefits of vaccines far outweigh the risks of side effects, which are usually mild and temporary, such as pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Serious allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare and can be treated promptly by medical professionals on the spot. 

Vaccines are recommended for children of different ages, starting from birth. The recommended immunization schedule is based on the best scientific evidence and advice from your child’s doctor. It is designed to provide your child with the best protection at the optimal time before they are exposed to diseases. Some vaccines require more than one dose to ensure full immunity. It is important to follow the immunization schedule and not skip or delay any vaccines, as this may leave your child vulnerable to infections.

 

Common Vaccines Your Child Should Get

  • Hepatitis B vaccine

It protects against a virus that can cause liver damage and cancer. It is given at birth, and again at 1 and 6 months of age.

  • Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccine

It protects against three bacterial diseases that can cause breathing problems, muscle spasms, and death. It is given at 2, 4, 6, and 15 to 18 months of age, and again at 4 to 6 years of age.

  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine

Protects against a bacterium that can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious infections. It is given at 2, 4, 6, and 12 to 15 months of age.

  • Polio vaccine

It protects against a virus that can cause paralysis and death. It is given at 2, 4, 6 to 18 months of age, and again at 4 to 6 years of age.

  • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine

It protects against three viral diseases that can cause rash, fever, swelling, and complications such as deafness, brain damage, and death. It is given at 12 to 15 months of age, and again at 4 to 6 years of age.

  • Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine

Protects against a virus that can cause an itchy rash, blisters, and complications such as skin infections, pneumonia, and brain inflammation. It is given at 12 to 15 months of age, and again at 4 to 6 years of age.

  • Pneumococcal vaccine

Protects against a bacterium that can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. It is given at 2, 4, 6, and 12 to 15 months of age.

  • Influenza (flu) vaccine

It protects against a virus that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, and complications such as pneumonia and death. It is given every year, starting from 6 months of age.

  • Meningococcal vaccine

Protects against a bacterium that can cause meningitis and sepsis. It is given at 11 to 12 years of age, and again at 16 years of age.

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine

It protects against a virus that can cause genital warts and cancers of the cervix, anus, penis, and throat. It is given at 11 to 12 years of age, in two or three doses depending on the age of initiation.

These are some of the vaccines that your child should receive, but there may be others depending on your child’s health condition, travel plans, or exposure to certain diseases. You can check with your child’s doctor or nurse for more information and advice on the vaccines that your child needs. 

 

Conclusion

Vaccinations are a safe and effective way to protect your child from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. By getting vaccinated, your child can enjoy a healthy and happy life and also contribute to the health and well-being of others. Vaccinations are a gift of love and care for your child and your community. Don’t hesitate to vaccinate your child today.