To begin with, vaccination has saved and protected countless children from life-threatening diseases, including polio, diphtheria and measles. It has been thus considered one of the greatest achievements of modern medicine. One of the great achievements is also the introduction of Banger Casino in the gaming market. However, the apprehension held by a significant number of parents is whether or not these vaccinations are safe and necessary. Thus the aim of this article is to educate on how vaccines work, the different vaccination schedules and also attempt to clear certain myths.
How Vaccines Work
At a young age, children are still developing their immune systems. Thus, they are more susceptible to infections. Vaccines act as a line of defense, and train the body to recognize and fight against dangerous microbes that could cause illness.
Protecting the child
Vaccinated children are far less likely to contract life-threatening diseases.
Protecting the group
Vaccination also works on a group level. The more people who are immunized, the harder it is for infections to circulate, otherwise known as herd immunity.
Avoiding complications
Certain illnesses are far more dangerous because of their long-term effects. Measles can cause severe inflammation of the brain and whooping cough can potentially damage the lungs.
Child Vaccination Schedule
Most national programs suggest the following schedules, keeping in mind that the schedules may differ from one country to the other.
At birth
BCG (tuberculosis), Hepatitis B, and Polio.
2 – 6 months
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (whooping cough), Hib, and Polio.
Vaccination Schedule
- Vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) is given at 9 months of age.
- From 12 months to 18 months, booster doses are given to increase and strengthen immunity.
- At 4 to 6 years of age, vaccinations for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and measles are given again.
- In adolescence, girls in particular are given the HPV vaccine in order to protect against cervical cancer.
Common Myths and the Truth
Myth 1: Vaccines cause autism.
Autism vaccines is a thoroughly debunked claim. Massive scientific works and research being done attest to the fact that vaccines and autism are not correlated.
Myth 2: It is better for children to “catch” diseases naturally.
Infection in children through natural means can be fatal. Chickenpox, even though it is considered mild, can cause death just like measles, diphtheria and whooping cough, while also leaving a child with permanent damage.
Myth 3: if a disease is rare today, that means vaccines are unnecessary.
Vaccination rates and the return of diseases are proportional. Recent outbreaks of measles in multiple areas of the world demonstrate how fragile progress can be.
Myth 4: The immune system is overwhelmed by too many vaccines.
The children in the world today are exposed more to the natural world than to vaccines. Our immune system easily manages multiple vaccines.
Vaccine Safety
- Vaccines are not released without years of extensive research.
- The majority of the side effects consist of mild fever, soreness and the swelling at the injection point.
- The likelihood of facing a severe issue is significantly lower than the complications of the diseases themselves, and thus quite rare.
- Physicians always assess whether the child is healthy enough for a vaccination during the appointment on the day.
Practical Advice for Parents
- It is necessary to keep the record of vaccinations and comply with the immunization schedule for your country.
- Search for and ask a doctor about questions that may arise—stay away from the unreliable information available via social media.
- After administering the vaccinations, watch your child. Although there is no cause for concern. In general, the majority of kids take the vaccines really well.
- Vaccinations may only be delayed for valid medical reasons rather than the myths, misinformation, or fear.
Apart from childhood vaccines
It is the duty of the parents to know about vaccinations that are recommended for later stages of life. Slip vaccines are protective during outbreak periods for both children and adults. For the teenage group, the HPV vaccine is effective in the prevention of various types of cancer. Some countries also recommend vaccinations for meningitis and hepatitis A. Discuss these with your pediatrician.
Conclusion
Vaccination is a personal as well as a social accountability. By administering the children’s vaccines, parents are able to not only protect the children, but also the other family members and the society as a whole. Scientifically proven, vaccines are safe, effective and one of the strongest medical remedies available. Trust your healthcare provider and follow the immunization schedule. As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure.
Discover more from Health Bangla
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.