Child vaccinations explained

It may be upsetting (understandably) to see three or four shots on a tray all meant for your baby. But these shots offer protection against 14 infectious diseases.

Young babies are not strong enough to handle any of those diseases, and the vaccination schedule is designed to protect young children before they are likely to be exposed to them.

That’s the goal, but let’s address a few of the common questions that make parents hesitate when the time to vaccinate comes.

What is a vaccine?

When germs (bacteria or viruses) enter the body, the immune system recognizes them as foreign substances (antigens). The immune system produces the right antibodies to fight the antigens.

Vaccines contain weakened versions of a virus or versions that look like a virus. This means the antigens cannot produce the signs or symptoms of the disease, but they do stimulate the immune system to create antibodies. These antibodies help protect you if you are exposed to the virus in the future.

Are vaccines safe?

The protection provided by vaccines far outweighs the very small risk of serious problems. Vaccines have made many serious childhood diseases rare today.

When should my child be vaccinated?

Recommendations about when to have your child vaccinated change from time to time. You can stay up-to-date by getting a copy of the most current child and adolescent vaccination schedules, or you can ask your family doctor or pediatrician. Your child usually receives their first vaccine soon after they are born.

Are there any reasons my child should not be vaccinated?

In special situations, children shouldn’t be vaccinated. For example, some vaccines shouldn’t be given to children who have certain types of cancer or certain diseases, or who are taking drugs that lower the body’s ability to resist infection.

If your child has had a serious reaction to the first shot in a series of shots, your family doctor will probably talk with you about the pros and cons of giving him or her the rest of the shots in the series.

And you can always take questions and concerns to your doctor, giving you confidence as you make good decisions in this vaccine season.