Childhood vaccinations have been a hot topic in recent years. Arguments over the safety and need for vaccines seem to be never-ending, but knowing the facts is vital to having an informed opinion. Not only are childhood vaccines safe, they’re a necessity to protecting the safety of your child and everyone around them.
Measles is now one of the most pressing public health concerns in the U.S, which requires two early childhood vaccinations to effectively prevent. Children with updated measles vaccines have a 95% chance of combating the disease throughout their lifetime.
Take a look at these common vaccine needs for young children to make sure your child isn’t missing anything important!
Knowing the Schedule
To meet your child’s vaccine needs, you have to know the vaccination schedule. This chart from the CDC includes a schedule for all vaccinations from birth until age 6. However, there are some cases that would require additional vaccines. You should follow the recommended vaccination schedule to ensure the safety of your child and those around them. If you have any questions about the safety or timing of the schedule, don’t hesitate to speak with the pediatrician.
Keeping Track
Now that you know the schedule, it’s time to stick to it. You can use this tool to keep track of the vaccines your child receives. If you’re unsure of what vaccinations your child has already received, contact the pediatrician to get a copy of their medical records. Be sure to use your vaccine tracking as a tool to schedule appointments when necessary to receive them on time!
Chickenpox
A common vaccine that parents’ question is the chickenpox vaccine. Many parents argue that chickenpox is a mild condition, but that isn’t the case for every child. Your child could develop blisters that become infected, leading to a high fever and even pneumonia. Chickenpox also increases the risk of developing a painful condition known as Shingles in their adult life.
Flu Shot
The flu vaccine is a vaccine that should be administered each year to every child 6 months of age or older. Each year the shot is different, so last years shot will not protect your child against the flu this year. The flu is a highly contagious condition that can lead to hospitalization, dehydration, and even death. Your child may even be eligible to receive their flu vaccine as a nasal spray rather than the traditional shot!
None of the vaccines listed on the CDC vaccination schedule come with any major risks or side effects. The most common side effects reported with vaccines are temporary redness and swelling at the injection site.