Vaccinations and immunizations are extremely important for kids of all ages. Proper vaccination programs can help prevent diseases that can cause life-threatening illnesses or permanent disabilities, like diphtheria, measles, and Haemophilus influenzae type B.
In addition, several diseases like smallpox and polio have been completely eliminated thanks to immunization programs. So make sure you protect your little ones by vaccinating them based on the recommendations of your pediatrician. Following immunization and vaccination guidelines will keep them healthy and safe as they grow. Learn more in this guide to child immunizations from Bayless Healthcare now.
How Do Vaccines Work?
Vaccines work by preparing your child’s body for future exposure to certain disease-causing viruses and bacteria. They contain “antigens,” which are a type of weakened virus or bacteria, or consist of only a small part of the entire microbe.
These antigens and other substances mimic the disease-causing agents, and the body’s immune system reacts to them, creating antibodies and other immune cells. The vaccine will not make your child sick, but will “trick” their immune system into thinking the disease is present.
In turn, this leads to a much stronger immune response if the actual disease-causing virus or bacteria enters your child’s immune system. The body will immediately respond forcefully to the presence of this already-known threat, preventing your child from getting sick.
Usually, vaccines are given through an injection (shot), but some can be given by mouth, and one type of vaccine is sprayed into the nose! Getting a shot may be scary for your little one, but it’s worth it thanks to the benefits of vaccination.
When should my child receive their vaccines?
The specific schedule may vary somewhat based on your child. As a rule, you should follow whatever recommendations your child’s pediatrician makes. The following information is for reference only.
Between the ages of birth and 15 months, your child will need to receive the following vaccinations:
- Hepatitis b
- Rotavirus
- Diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis
- Haemophilus influenzae type b
- Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
- Inactivated poliovirus (IPV)
- Influenza
- Measles, mumps & rubella (MMR)
- Varicella
- Hepatitis A
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Meningococcal
- Meningococcal B
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide
The dosing time for each vaccine varies, and most vaccines will require multiple injections, starting at birth. Hepatitis B, for example, is given at birth, then at 1 and 2 months. MMR (Measles, mumps & rubella) on the other hand, is usually given starting at 15 months.
Children between the ages of 18 months to 18 years will also need to be re-vaccinated with booster shots and additional vaccines for the above diseases. You can see a CDC reference chart for birth-18 years for a more comprehensive guide to child immunization timelines.
Again, the precise schedule may vary depending on your child’s overall health, how often you visit the doctor and certain risk factors. We highly recommend consulting with an experienced pediatrician and working closely with them to ensure your child gets all of the necessary vaccinations.
Contact Us To Schedule A Consultation Today & Join The Bayless Family!
We hope this guide to child immunizations from Bayless Healthcare has been helpful. Vaccinations are more important now than ever.
So at Bayless Healthcare, we’re here to help. Our board-certified physicians and providers work with kids of all ages, and we’d love to meet your little ones and ensure they get the protection they need. Set an appointment online to get started – we would be glad to have you be part of our Bayless family.