Why are child immunisations important

The Vaccines for Children program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children from low-income families. Immunization protects future generations. Vaccines have reduced and, in some cases, eliminated many diseases that killed or severely disabled people just a few generations ago. For example, smallpox vaccination eradicated that disease worldwide.

By vaccinating children against rubella German measles , the risk that pregnant women will pass this virus on to their fetus or newborn has been dramatically decreased, and birth defects associated with that virus no longer are seen in the United States. If we continue vaccinating now, and vaccinating completely, parents in the future may be able to trust that some diseases of today will no longer be around to harm their children in the future.

Getting vaccinated is easy. See how vaccines are developed, approved, and monitored. Suite L Washington, D. If your child is exposed to a disease like measles for example, their immune system may not be strong enough to fight it off. You may wonder why your child needs vaccinations beginning so soon after birth. The schedules — created by top infectious disease experts and doctors — include 16 recommended vaccines, as well as dosages and timing from birth to 18 years old.

Today, the ACIP meets three times a year to review the latest scientific research and make any necessary changes to the vaccination schedule.

Vaccines not only prevent disease, they save lives. While some parents wonder if the number of vaccines and doses kids receive can ever be too much for their bodies to handle, the short answer is: No. Extensive research has been done to ensure the safety of vaccines for young immune systems. Without the protection from immunizations, these diseases could be imported and could quickly spread through the population, causing epidemics.

Nonimmunized people living in healthy conditions are not protected from disease. Your body's immune system can fight a disease better and faster if you have had the infection before or if you get immunized.

Author: Healthwise Staff. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise. And although children can have a reaction to any vaccine, the important thing to know is that the benefits of vaccinations far outweigh the possible side effects.

Many vaccines are given more than once, at different ages, and in combinations. Although your doctor's office will also keep track, people change doctors, records get lost, and the person ultimately responsible for keeping track of your child's immunizations is you.

Ask your child's doctor for an immunization record form. Think about your child's record as you would a birth certificate and keep it with your other essential documents. You can also download an easy-to-read immunization schedule and record form at the CDC website. Even though most parents and doctors do a good job of keeping up with immunizations, studies show that about one-fourth of preschool children are missing at least one routine vaccination.