What Is A Vaccine?
According to the WHO, “A vaccine is a biological preparation that improves immunity to a particular disease.” Most vaccinations begin soon after your baby is born and continue on for years to come. If you’re looking for the best Pediatric Clinic San Antonio, visit us for pediatric immunizations and consultations.Why Are They Important For Babies and Children?
In the United States, Polio was the nation’s most feared diseases that often caused paralysis and even death. However, due to safe and effective vaccines, there are almost no reports of this disease anymore. Vaccines help build up your child’s immunity and reduce or eliminate many diseases that once killed or severely disabled people. Smallpox is another great example of a disease that was eradicated from the world through vaccination. Hence, children born today don’t require a smallpox shot as the disease no longer exists.Why Timely Vaccinations Important?
Vaccinating your child on time ensures that they’re not vulnerable and their body is strong enough to fight off the disease. The pediatric immunization plan is mainly designed to enhance your child’s immunity as soon as possible. There are a couple of immunizations that must be given at a particular time and deferring them can be detrimental for your child’s health and wellbeing. Following the suggested immunization plan limits the number of visits to the specialist, which leads to less worry for your child and you.Missed a Vaccination- What Should You Do?
Your child will receive a vaccine for different diseases at varying ages. Some vaccines are given immediately after birth, while others require your baby to be at least six weeks old. Vaccines for various diseases differ, some are done on a one-shot basis and others are a series of two or three. The doses come with a recommended waiting time in between. They could, for example, be a month apart or as prescribed by the doctor. Missing a vaccination means, your child will be vulnerable to diseases until all the scheduled vaccines are taken. Here’s what you should do:- Consult your pediatrician: They might recommend a combination of vaccines that can build up your child’s immunity against various diseases in a single shot.
- Don’t Delay:If you’ve fallen behind on vaccinations and it’s been two or three months since the last one, you can still catch up without needing to start over. Rush your child to the pediatrician as soon as possible. Even if you’re late, complete the required number of doses. Breaking the vaccination schedule will not give your child optimal protection.
- Blood Exam:The doctor might advise your child to take a blood exam to assess their body’s response to the vaccine. This is commonly done two months after the last dose.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have concerns about your child's health, call your A thru Z Pediatrics office.