When a baby is born, their bodies have protection from some diseases based on the antibodies provided by their mother while in the womb. After the child is born, breast milk continues to provide this benefit. However, this is only temporary. Being vaccinated helps create immunity to dangerous diseases.
Vaccine Safety
You may wonder if vaccines are safe for your child and the answer is yes. Childhood vaccinations in North Charleston, SC, have led to the near eradication of many serious diseases. The protection that vaccination provides outweighs the tiny risk of a problem. Your pediatrician can explain this in more depth if you have questions.
Potential Side Effects
You can expect your physician to talk with you about any side effects that are possible with specific vaccines. Most commonly, you can expect mild side effects such as soreness, fever, or a lump at the site of the vaccination. Other side effects are extremely rare.
Vaccination Timing
Occasionally, recommendations about when to get your child vaccinated may change. However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention will always have a current copy. You can also ask your child’s pediatrician when vaccinations should be given. In many cases, your child will be given their first vaccination soon after their birth.
At this time, vaccinations are typically given at the following times for children under the age of two:
- Hepatitis B – birth, one to two months, and six to 15 months
- Rotavirus – Two months, four months, and sometimes six months
- Diphtheria, tetanus, & acellular pertussis – two months, four months, six months, and 15 months
- Haemophilus influenzae type b – two months, four months, sometimes six months, and 12 to 15 months
- Pneumococcal conjugate – two months, four months, six months, and 12 to 15 months
- Inactivated poliovirus – two months, four months, and six to 15 months
- Influenza – annually from six months
- Measles, mumps, and rubella – 12 to 15 months
- Varicella – 12 to 15 months
- Hepatitis A – 12 to 15 months
Reasons Not to Vaccinate
There are a few situations where a child should not receive child vaccinations in North Charleston, SC. These situations include when a child has certain diseases or cancers, as well as when the child is taking medications that make it harder to fight infection.
Vaccinations in North Charleston
If you’re looking for a pediatric facility that offers vaccinations, as well as other child healthcare, Palmetto Pediatrics can help. You can learn more by visiting www.CharlestonPalmettoPediatrics.com or making a call to 843-212-2008.
