Vaccinations

What is a vaccination?

Vaccinations are substances designed to boost a child's immunity against specific pathogens. After receiving the vaccination, a child is much less likely to contract that illness.

How do vaccinations work?

Depending on the vaccination, it would contain a dead or weakened form of a pathogen or pieces of the pathogen. When the substance is introduced into the child’s body, the child’s immune system begins producing antibodies specific to the pathogen. If the child ever encounters the pathogen again, the immune system is able to destroy it, and the child won’t contract the illness.

Which vaccinations should children get?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, children should receive the following vaccinations:

• Influenza
• Diphtheria
• Pneumococcal
• Tetanus
• Polio
• Measles
• Hib
• Mumps
• Hepatitis B
• Rubella
• Hepatitis A
• Chickenpox
• Rotavirus
• Pertussis

Older children should also receive the vaccination for human papillomavirus, or HPV and meningococcus.

Are vaccinations safe?

Vaccinations are safe for most children. Some children may experience mild side effects after receiving vaccinations such as a fever or pain at the injection site. In rare cases, children may also have allergic reactions to an ingredient in a vaccine, but most parents determine that the benefits of vaccines outweigh the risks.

Many children are afraid of vaccinations, but our doctors and staff are skilled at easing their fears. The pain associated with a vaccination is only temporary, and most children who were afraid have calmed down by the time they leave the office.

When should children begin getting vaccinations?

The CDC recommends receiving the first vaccinations shortly after birth and throughout the first years of life. Each vaccination has its own recommended schedule. Some vaccinations only require administration during childhood, while others should be given at regular intervals throughout the individual’s life. Our doctors can provide patients with more detailed information about the vaccinations their children need for optimal long-term health. If you need more information regarding vaccines please feel free to refer to the CDC guidelines.

Can children make up missed vaccinations?

If a child missed 1 or more recommended vaccinations, they usually can catch up. The CDC provides recommended catch-up schedules for children who are behind. Dangond Pediatrics can provide more information about these schedules.