Vaccines are essential for keeping our children safe and healthy. These injections or oral drops help protect children from serious diseases by strengthening their immune systems. Vaccines work by teaching the body to recognize and fight harmful viruses and bacteria that cause illnesses. Here, we’ll take a look at the types of vaccines recommended for children, their benefits, and why it’s crucial to get them at the right age.
Table of Contents
How Vaccines Work
When a child gets vaccinated, their immune system learns to create antibodies against specific germs without them falling sick. Later in life, if they are exposed to the actual virus or bacteria, their immune system is already prepared to fight it off, helping them stay healthy.
Vaccines for Children from Birth to 6 Years
In the first few years of life, children are most vulnerable to infections. To protect them, several vaccines are recommended, starting from birth:
- Hepatitis B (Hep B) protects against a liver infection that can cause liver failure. Three doses are given within the first 18 months.
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is given to mothers or infants to protect against RSV, which can cause serious breathing problems.
- Rotavirus (RV) is an oral vaccine to prevent severe diarrhea in infants. It’s given in two or three doses between 2-6 months.
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) requires five doses from 2 months to 6 years to protect against these infections.
- Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) protects against bacterial infections that can cause brain, lung, or throat issues.
- PCV15/PCV20 (Pneumococcal) protects against serious blood and brain infections. Given in four doses starting from 2 months.
- IPV (Inactivated Poliovirus) provides four doses to prevent polio, starting at 2 months.
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) protects against three diseases with two doses – first at 12-15 months and second at 4-6 years.
- Hepatitis A (Hep A) is given in two doses from age 1 to prevent liver infection.
- Varicella (Chickenpox) includes two doses to prevent chickenpox, usually given with MMR.
- Influenza (Flu) is recommended yearly for children from 6 months.
- COVID-19 is recommended for all children from 6 months, with one to three doses depending on age and type.
Vaccines for Children Aged 7 to 18 Years
As children grow, they need booster shots or additional vaccines to maintain immunity:
- Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) is given at age 11-12, as immunity from earlier DTaP fades.
- MenACWY-TT/MenB-FHbp, Penbraya (Meningococcal) protects against meningitis, recommended at age 11-12, with a booster at 16.
- Meningococcal B is recommended for children 16 and older who are at higher risk.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is recommended from age 11-12 to prevent cancers caused by HPV.
Other vaccines, like the flu shot, are recommended yearly, and some children may need additional doses if they missed certain vaccines when younger.
Why Vaccines Are Given at Specific Ages
The timing of vaccines is based on when a child’s body can best respond to them. Receiving vaccines early in life prevents illnesses before children are at risk. Spreading out vaccines does not improve safety or effectiveness.
Safety of Vaccines
Most side effects are mild, like a sore arm or slight fever, and disappear quickly. Serious reactions are rare. If a child has had a severe reaction to a vaccine in the past, consult a doctor.
The Risks of Not Vaccinating
Without vaccines, children are at risk of serious or even deadly diseases. They could also spread illnesses to vulnerable individuals, such as newborns or people with immune issues.
Conclusion
Vaccines are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect children from dangerous diseases. Following the recommended vaccine schedule ensures that children grow up safe, healthy, and protected from preventable illnesses. Make sure to talk to your child’s doctor and stay updated on their vaccination plan.
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