Why should I vaccinate my child?
Vaccines not only protect your child, but they also keep your child from unwittingly spreading a disease.
The polio vaccine is one of the most significant medical advances in the history of the United States. This simple vaccine has protected millions of children from contracting the disease, and the US hasn’t seen a case originate on its soil since 1979.
Smallpox has also been completely eradicated and doesn’t exist anywhere on the planet.
These are but two examples of the many successes that vaccines have had in reducing, if not eradicating, several harmful and potentially fatal diseases.
One of the biggest reasons behind the success of vaccinations is the participation of the masses. Vaccines provide immunization against highly contagious diseases, so it’s critical that everyone has the same protection or they risk being a source of contagion.
What should my child be vaccinated against?
The team at Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond offers vaccinations to combat the following:
- Chickenpox
- Diphtheria
- Hib
- Hepatitis A and B
- Human papillomavirus, or HPV
- Influenza, or flu
- Measles
- Mumps
- Pertussis, or whooping cough
- Polio
- Pneumococcal
- Rotavirus
- Rubella
- Tetanus
When should I start vaccinating?
You can start vaccinating your newborn baby one month after birth. At the two, four, and six-month marks, your child should receive the bulk of the vaccinations, which the doctors administer in combination injections.
At 12-18 months, your child should be fully immunized with the available vaccines, with a couple of exceptions:
- The HPV vaccine is given between the ages of 9 and 26
- Children and adults should get the flu shot annually
The physicians at Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond are happy to provide you with a full schedule, so you know what to expect. The staff also keeps track of your child’s vaccinations and alerts you when you need to come in.
Are there any side effects from vaccines?
Vaccines are quite safe, and there are very few side effects. Most complications are confined to swelling, redness, and soreness at the site of the injection. Cases of low-grade fever have also been reported, which typically subside after a day or two.
To learn more about the benefits of immunization, call Doctors of Bellevue-Redmond, or use the online booking tool to schedule a visit.
