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5 Things To Know About Immunizations
The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds us that immunizations have helped children stay healthy for more than 50 years. They are safe and they work. In fact, serious side effects are no more common than those from other types of medication. Vaccinations have reduced the number of infections from vaccine-preventable diseases by more than 90%. The team at Kids First wants you to know the following 5 things about immunizations to help you make choices for your child.
The majority of parents choose to vaccinate their children.
Rest assured that most parents choose to vaccinate to protect their children, families, and the community. Delaying or refusing vaccines can leave children vulnerable and puts others at risk.
Vaccines protect against measles.
Most of the people who got sick in the recent measles outbreak were not vaccinated against measles. This is a stark reminder of the importance of making sure your children are fully vaccinated. Choosing to not vaccinate your children not only leaves them susceptible to measles but also exposes other children to measles. This includes infants who are too young to be vaccinated and those who are unable to be vaccinated due to other health conditions. In addition, measles is still common and large outbreaks still occur in many other parts of the world. Thus, measles is just a plane ride away, or even closer.
The flu vaccine is the best way to fight the flu.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine every year.
At the end of last flu season when COVID-19 was circulating, more people had to be hospitalized or died from what doctors called “influenza-like illnesses.” Flu and COVID-19 will be spreading at the same time again this winter. Getting a flu shot will help protect your child from one of these viruses.
The HPV vaccine protects against cancer.
Studies show that kids who complete all two doses of HPV vaccines by age 14 have much lower rates of cervical pre-cancer and genital warts than those who are vaccinated later. Preteens make more antibodies from the vaccine shots, which may translate into better protection.
With the HPV vaccine, parents have the chance to protect their sons and daughters now against HPV-related cancers in the future.
Immunizations help college kids stay healthy.
Now more than ever it is important for college kids to stay safe as they return to school. Vaccines to prevent illnesses like pertussis, measles, and meningitis can keep your children safe. Be sure to make an appointment with Kids First before heading back to school to ensure that your child has all the information they need to stay healthy.
Still feeling nervous or unsure about vaccines? The providers at Kids First Pediatrics are happy to answer any and all questions regarding immunizations and your kids’ health.
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics.
*This article is informational but is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.
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