Why give certain vaccinations
to our children?
Vaccinations can help prevent 12 potentially seriousdiseases in children. These are mumps,
measles, rubella or German measles, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio,
chicken pox, haemophilus influenza type b, hepatitis B, hepatitis A, and
pneumococcal disease. There are several
combination vaccines which can be given in a single vaccination, reducing the
total number of shots required to completely vaccinate a child. The primary care physicians at Germantown Primary Care Associates will help you decide when the best time is to vaccinate
your child.
How early should
certain vaccinations be given?
Some of these diseases are much more serious if
contracted by an infant or young child. Others
are common in childhood, so early vaccination helps develop immunity in
children before they get the disease.
The recommended ages for certain vaccinations to be given are determined
to provide the child the best and earliest protection against the disease.
How safe are these
vaccinations?
These vaccinations are very safe, but just like any other
medication, they may occasionally cause a reaction. Most reactions are mild, such as a slightfever or a sore arm and while rare, more serious reactions can occur. Most childhood vaccinations will give immunity
to between 90 and 99 percent of the children who receive them. Occasionally a child may not respond to a
vaccination. This is one of the reasons
that is it important to vaccinate all children.
The child who did not respond to the vaccination by creating immunity
will be depending upon the vaccinated children around her for protection. It is best to discuss all of these details
with your primary care physician at Germantown Primary Care Associates in
Germantown, Maryland.
No comments:
Post a Comment