As a parent, one of the biggest responsibilities we carry is ensuring the health and well-being of our children. One major aspect of this responsibility is making decisions regarding vaccines for our kids.
With medical advancements, there are now many vaccines available to protect children from serious illnesses.
However, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the numerous vaccines for kids recommended by healthcare professionals and understand their purpose and timing.
This blog aims to shed light on vaccine schedules: what they are, why they matter, and how you can make informed choices for your child’s immunization journey.
What Are Vaccines and Why Are They Important?
Vaccines are like a shield for our bodies. They help us fight off germs before they make us sick. When we get vaccinated, our body learns how to fight germs without actually getting sick from them.
When a child gets a vaccine, their immune system gets a sneak peek of a germ. This preview helps the body recognize and fight that germ if they come across it later.
Different Types of Vaccines
There are several types of vaccines, each designed to protect against specific diseases caused by germs. Some vaccines use dead germs, and others use weakened germs. They all aim to teach the immune system how to fight off diseases.
Key Vaccines for Kids
Here are some of the key vaccines for kids on the schedule:
Hepatitis B
The Hepatitis B vaccine protects against a virus that can damage the liver. It’s usually given shortly after birth.
DTaP
DTaP stands for Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis. This vaccine protects against three dangerous diseases. It’s given in several doses throughout early childhood.
MMR
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. It’s usually given when a child is between 12-15 months old.
HPV
HPV stands for human papillomavirus, and this vaccine protects against certain types of HPV that can lead to cancer. It’s recommended for both boys and girls in their preteen years.
Varicella (Chickenpox)
The Varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious disease that causes an itchy rash and other symptoms like fever and tiredness. It’s typically given in two doses, the first between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years old.
Influenza (Flu)
The influenza vaccine for kids helps protect against the seasonal flu, which can be especially dangerous for young children. This vaccine for kids is recommended yearly starting at 6 months of age.
Rotavirus
The Rotavirus vaccine is given to infants to protect against rotavirus infections, which can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting. This vaccine is administered in a two- or three-dose series, starting at 2 months old.
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
The Hib vaccine protects against infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b, a bacterium that can lead to serious illnesses like meningitis and pneumonia. This vaccine is usually given in a series of doses starting at 2 months old.
Pneumococcal (PCV13)
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. It’s administered in a series of doses starting at 2 months old.
What is a Vaccine Schedule?
A vaccine schedule is a timetable that shows which vaccines your child needs and when they should get them. It helps ensure that your child receives all the necessary shots at the right times.
Sticking to this schedule gives your child the best protection against preventable diseases.
The First Year of Life
During the first year of life, babies will get many vaccines. These include shots for hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), polio, pneumococcal disease, and rotavirus.
These vaccines are usually given in multiple doses to provide full protection.
Toddler Years
Between the ages one and three, your child will receive more vaccines. These include the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), varicella (chickenpox), and hepatitis A vaccines.
Booster shots for some earlier vaccines are also given during this time to ensure continued protection.
Preschool and Kindergarten
Before starting school, your child will need booster shots for DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), polio, MMR, and varicella. These boosters help maintain immunity as your child grows and starts interacting with more people.
Pre-Teens and Teens
Around age 11 or 12, your child will need another Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) booster, the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine, and the meningococcal vaccine. These vaccines protect against diseases that become more common during the teenage years.
Flu Shot
The flu vaccine is recommended every year for children older than six months. The flu virus changes each year, so a new vaccine is needed annually to provide the best protection.
Getting the flu shot can prevent your child from getting the flu and reduce the severity if they do get sick.
Catch-Up Vaccines
If your child misses a vaccine or a booster, don’t worry – talk to your doctor about catch-up vaccines. These will help your child get back on track and ensure they are fully protected.
Vaccines for Kids Near Me in Purchase, NY
Ensuring your child stays on schedule with their vaccinations is a pivotal step in safeguarding their health.
At BridgeSpan Medicine, we provide comprehensive support and resources to help parents stay updated on their child’s vaccine needs. Our experienced team of pediatricians is dedicated to providing top-quality care and guidance for your child’s health.
Schedule an appointment with us today by calling us at (914) 698-5544 or filling out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
