They help children develop immunity against potentially deadly or disabling childhood diseases and also reduce the risk of the spread of disease to others. Below is information about childhood immunizations and the recommended schedule. Diseases like measles spread quickly so children need to be protected before they enter school. Immunization is the only protection children have against these childhood diseases. These diseases have the potential for serious or fatal complications, including breathing problems, brain damage, meningitis and paralysis.
Children can have reactions to vaccines that range from mild to serious.
Mild reactions may include slight swelling at the sight of the vaccination and a low-grade fever. Serious reactions to vaccines are very rare. The risk of contracting a serious child hood disease is much greater than the risk of having a serious reaction to a vaccine. Please discuss these risks and your child's overall medical history with your doctor to determine if any medical conditions are present that would prohibit your child from receiving a vaccine. If your child has any reaction to the vaccines, contact your doctor.