The antibodies will help the recipient fight off infections. Therefore immune globulin is not a permanent substitute for vaccination. However, in some cases the immune globulin will help you fight off an infection until your body starts making its own antibodies. Here I have described many of the common diseases we immunize patients against, and talk about the vaccines we use as well. It's always a good idea to keep a copy of your child's immunization record at home, too.
Thimerosal is a mercury-based chemical.
Although no one has shown that thimerosal in vaccines poses a danger of mercury poisoning in infants or children, there is a theoretical risk of such poisoning. The risk of toxicity from the thimerosal in these vaccines is most significant in infants less than 6 months old. Vaccines which do not contain thimerosal are now available, which should reduce or eliminate the problem. We welcome your comments and questions. If you have specific questions about your child you must ask your child's regular doctor.