It is unclear, however, whether these vaccines provide long-term immunity. There is also disagreement within the homeopathic community concerning this practice, since homeopathy typically treats existing illnesses based on symptoms. In this sense, homeopathy is not preventive medicine. It is suggested, though, that remedies can lessen the severity of adverse vaccine reactions. Homeopathy works by stimulating the body's own power to heal itself, which often includes the immune system.
Some parents choose a delayed or modified vaccination schedule for their children.
Lisa G. of Capitola, Calif., waited until her son was 2 years old to begin immunizations because he has asthma and is highly allergic. Linda B. of Scotts Valley, Calif., gives her children half-doses of vaccine. If they have a negative reaction, like high fever or swelling that lasts several days, she does not continue the series. He recommends that parents get as much information as they can about the vaccines, decide which ones they want and which they don't, and choose the right time to give them. He cites an example from Japan, where delaying administration of the DTP vaccine until the age of 2 decreased severe adverse reactions and deaths by almost 90 percent.