Why Childhood Immunizations Matter

It’s Infant Immunization Week and it’s important to know that it is much easier to prevent aggressive diseases rather than treat them. Years ago, harmful diseases that were very prevalent in the U.S. and across the globe included measles, polio, diphtheria, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, rubella (German measles), smallpox, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and rotavirus.

Fortunately, these serious diseases can now be prevented thanks to vaccines and millions of lives have been saved because of the advancements made in medicine throughout the years. Slowing down or stopping childhood immunizations could cause this progress to go backwards, resulting in many sick children with dangerous, highly contagious diseases. Smallpox is the only disease that has completely vanished from the world. Although many others have been seen at very low rates in the U.S., they still exist in other countries. Making sure your child is always up to date on their vaccines is the best way to have protection against them.

Are vaccines harmful?

Vaccines are intended to offer protection and work by helping the body get prepared to fight off illness. There is a possibility of your child getting a minor reaction to their vaccine such as a low-grade fever, or redness and pain near the injection site. However, these side effects are typically temporary and don’t occur in everyone. In fact, research shows the risk of dangerous reactions is much lower than if an individual were to contract the disease. You are also encouraged to have an open conversation with your child’s pediatrician to get answers for any specific questions or concerns you may have.

Is your child up to date on their vaccines?

Vaccines are necessary to provide your child immunity from many dangerous diseases that still exist throughout the world today. They are an essential component to allowing children to have a healthy and safe childhood and will even benefit them many years later after being immunized.

If your child needs to catch up on any vaccines they’ve missed and you’d like to plan a visit for their next immunizations please click here to schedule an appointment

Regardless of the date published, no content on this website should ever be used as a replacement for direct medical advice from your primary care provider or another qualified clinician.