Immunizations
An immunization or vaccination is a pill, drink, or shot (inoculation) that provides immunity against a disease or illness by introducing a very low dose of the virus into the individual's system. Because of the small amount of the virus, the body can successfully fight it off, creating antibodies in the process that enable the body to develop an immunity to the virus. Some immunizations are needed once, while others are “boosters,” which need to be given every few years or so at intervals.
Alert!
In addition to state-regulated required vaccinations, some pediatricians will suggest your child get a flu shot each year. Influenza is very dangerous in children, so talk to your physician about the shot and what it can do to keep your child healthy. New immunizations are coming out every year and so the schedule of shots changes, too.
While there is some controversy about immunizations (because some parents attribute inoculations to the rise in autism and other developmental delays), every parent should remember that just a few generations ago, millions of children became ill as a result of diseases such as pertussis (whooping cough) and measles which are still around today.
Before the age of five, most children will receive the following immunizations.
• Five DPT shots that protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (also called whooping cough)
• Four polio immunizations
• Two MMR injections which protect against measles, mumps, and rubella
Your child will also likely receive three or four Hib vaccinations, which can protect a child from the bacteria that causes bacterial meningitis, epiglottitis, and blood infections, as well as other infections. Pneumococcal vaccines protect kids from ear infections, pneumonia, and meningitis. New vaccines are being developed all the time. So parents should expect changes in the vaccination schedule as new vaccines come into use.
State Regulations
Every state has its own laws about when and how often children need to be immunized against each disease. Your baby was probably first vaccinated at the hospital, just a few days after she was born. At that time, the nurse gave you a booklet or piece of paper with a list and the dates of the inoculations your baby received. This paperwork is important and you should bring it with you each time you visit the pediatrician. This is how you and the doctor (as well as any other doctors) can be sure she has been properly vaccinated.
If you move, especially to another state, your child's immunization schedule will begin to follow that state's regulation and schedule, but having the proper paperwork will ensure that she isn't over- or undervaccinated throughout her life.
Vaccination Concerns
Over the last decade or so, some parents have begun to believe there is a connection between immunizations and autism, allergies, attention deficit disorder, and some of the other issues currently affecting children. Multiple studies done in numerous countries have concluded there is no definitive link between immunizations and these health issues.
Fact
Autism is a word that is generally used to describe a number of disorders, including Asperger's syndrome, attachment disorder, and other problems that relate to a child's ability to connect with family and create friendships. Each of these illnesses has its own set of symptoms and treatments.
Nevertheless, if this a concern of yours, you should ask your pediatrician any questions and contact organizations (general ones are listed in Appendix A) that specialize in supporting parents whose children struggle with autism and related illnesses.
