What Are Vaccines?
Vaccinations are a way to provide immunity to many common diseases. Vaccines can be administered as an oral drug or a nasal spray, but it is most commonly distributed in the form of an injection. Each vaccine works by helping the body produce antibodies against certain viruses or bacteria without actually infecting the person with the disease. By doing this, if the individual ever comes in contact with the disease-causing virus, the person’s body will know how to fight it off and prevent sickness.
How Long Do Vaccines Last?
Many vaccines provide lifelong protection against disease. However, some vaccines do require booster shots to keep the protecting antibodies up-to-date in your body. The doctor will inform the patients when they require a booster shot.
What Vaccines Should My Child Get?
Your child should receive a number of immunization vaccines as he or she grows up. Some of the more well-known vaccinations include chickenpox, the flu, hepatitis A and B, measles, mumps, and polio. Many immunizations require more than one dose in order to be effective, so it is important to consult with your child’s pediatrician to follow their recommended immunization schedule. Our practice adheres to the CDC guidelines on vaccine scheduling. Some vaccines, such as influenza (better known as the flu), will need to be administered on a yearly basis. This is because the flu virus constantly mutates and requires a yearly updated vaccination. Additionally, some vaccines are required for admittance to school. These vaccines are typically administered between the ages of 4 to 6 and 11 to 12.
Why Does My Child Need Vaccinations?
Vaccinations are an important tool for eradicating disease across the globe, especially among children. For example, smallpox was once a deadly illness but has been virtually wiped out because of vaccinations. Polio, measles, rubella, and chickenpox are also close to complete eradication because of consistent vaccinations.
The CDC on the benefits of immunizations: "Vaccination is one of the best ways parents can protect infants, children, and teens from 16 harmful diseases. Vaccines preventable diseases can be very serious, may require hospitalization, or can even be deadly, especially in infants and young children."
