Vaccines for Children: A Guide to 10 Common Immunizations

how to manage stress
How to Manage Stress with Healthy Habits during the Holidays
December 17, 2018
healthcare jobs
3 Reasons why Healthcare Jobs Provide Rewarding Careers
January 10, 2019

Kids today have the opportunity to live far healthier lives than their parents did just a generation ago. Advances in modern medicine, like more effective vaccines for children, have reduced the risk of many once-dangerous health problems. From the chickenpox to the flu, vaccines are both safe and effective for kids of all ages.

10 Childhood Vaccines no Kid should go Without

Chickenpox

Chickenpox is a highly-contagious childhood illness that causes rashes of itchy blisters. It can cause serious problems in babies or those with weak immune systems.

Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (DTaP)

Diptheria, which once killed tens of thousands of American kids every year, can cause breathing problems, paralysis and even heart failure.

Tetanus is a painful locking of the jaw that prevents opening of the mouth or swallowing.

Pertussis, which is also known as Whooping Cough, can cause spells of coughing, pneumonia, seizures, brain damage or death.

It is recommend that children receive five doses of DTaP before age six.

Hepatitis A and B

Hepatitis A and B are viruses that can cause permanent damage to liver function.

Hib

The Hib vaccine is a common immunization that has virtually eliminated one of the most common causes of meningitis.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that kids who are 11 or 12 years old should get an HPV vaccine to protect against cervical and other types of cancer.

vaccines for children

Influenza

A yearly flu shot is suggested for all children who are six months or older.

Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)

MMR vaccines for children help to protect against three potentially serious illnesses. Many states require proof of MMR shots in order to begin schooling.

Meningococcal Vaccines

Two separate vaccines for meningitis are generally administered to preteens and teens.

Pneumonia

Pneumococcal injections are typically given to infants in a series of four injections to help them develop an immune response to pneumonia.

Polio

The polio vaccine has been very effective at nearly eradicating the spread of a crippling and potentially deadly disease. The CDC recommends that all children receive four doses before the age of six.

vaccines for children

Vaccines for Children are Safe and Effective

Vaccines are a safe and effective way to boost your child’s immune system. They save lives and prevent the spread of contagious and even deadly diseases.

During well child visits, your pediatrician can administer many of these vaccines. The CDC has developed a recommended schedule for all parents to follow.

Although mild symptoms after a vaccination are possible, these types of shots do not cause infection or illness.

How Vaccines Prevent Diseases

It’s important not to skip childhood vaccinations. They are proven to be effective at helping children develop a strong immune response for common illnesses.

A vaccine prepares your child’s body to fight illnesses, like polio or pneumonia, without exposing them to the symptoms of the disease. It is an “imitation” of an infection that prepares the body to handle the real illness.

It is currently the best available method to reduce the risk of many common types of serious health issues. Kids who receive all of their recommended immunizations are much more likely to enjoy a healthy childhood.

Advantage Care specializes in comprehensive pediatric medicine. Our services include vaccines for children, school physicals and acute care.

If you would like to schedule a doctor’s appointment for your child, please contact us today.

vaccines for children

Helpful Links