How do immunizations work?
Immunizations deliver a small amount of a bacteria or virus into your body, which triggers your body’s natural immune defenses to fight off this invader by developing antibodies. These antibodies protect your child from getting sick if they are ever exposed to common childhood diseases such as chickenpox or measles.
Vaccines work to prevent serious diseases ― always a better strategy than trying to cure a disease once it has already developed.
What immunizations do you offer?
Each child’s health care plan is unique, but governing health organizations like the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a childhood immunization schedule. Between birth and 18 years of age, most children should receive various immunizations, including:
- Measles, mumps, and rubella
- Polio
- Hepatitis
- Rotavirus
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis
- Haemophilus influenzae type B
- Meningococcal
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Varicella
Dr. Goldstein can help you plan and track your child’s immunization schedule to ensure they receive the right vaccines at the appropriate age.
What are the benefits of immunizations?
Standard childhood immunizations prevent diseases that often do not respond to medical treatment. An unvaccinated child who contracts one of these diseases could face serious consequences — even death. Immunizations are a safe and secure way to guard against common viruses and bacteria, arming your child’s body with the defenses it needs to fight off infection.
Immunizations also prevent your child from spreading diseases to members of your family, their schoolmates, or members of the community.
While healthy babies are born with immune defenses, this immunity fades away by their first birthday. That’s why it’s essential to maintain a regular immunization schedule and not to delay essential vaccines in early childhood.
What can my child expect after an immunization?
After getting a vaccine, some children might experience minor reactions, such as flu-like symptoms, fever, or fatigue. These are normal responses and can actually indicate the vaccine is working.
Dr. Goldstein administers immunizations right in the office, making every effort to ensure your child feels comfortable and safe along the way.
To get started on or continue your child’s immunization schedule today, call the office or book an appointment online.