Immunizations
Why should I get my child vaccinated?
No parent likes to see their child sick. The easiest and most effective way to protect them from many life-threatening illnesses is to make sure they receive the appropriate immunizations.
When should I get my child vaccinated?
First, talk to your pediatrician or health care provider. Your local government or school board will have specific requirements for school-aged children to be properly immunized for public school.
The Centers for Disease Control publishes a recommended schedule of what vaccines a child should receive and at what age. Here are copies of the schedules by age group:
"Childhood immunizations are responsible for the control of many infectious diseases that were once common in this country, including polio, measles, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), rubella (German measles), mumps, tetanus, and Hib disease. Now we have new vaccines available to help prevent the flu and chickenpox. While the US currently has near record low cases of vaccine-preventable diseases, the viruses and bacteria that cause them still exist. Vaccines prevent disease in the people who receive them and protect those who come into contact with unvaccinated individuals."
- American Academy of Pediatrics
Interesting or Related Links:
Why does there seem to be a flu vaccine shortage every year? (see Sidebar on the Flu page)
