Medical Health Encyclopedia

Immunizations - general overview

IMMUNIZING CHILDREN

Babies get so many shots these days! Many parents are concerned that the sheer number of vaccines might overwhelm, weaken, or use up a baby's immature immune system. But a baby's immune system is built to make antibodies to as many as 10,000 foreign proteins. If a baby were to receive all 11 available vaccines at once, this would engage only a tiny fraction of the immune system.

MERCURY

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A small amount of mercury (called thimerosal) is a common preservative in multi-dose vaccines. Despite concerns, thimerosal-containing vaccines have NOT been shown to cause autism or ADHD. Nevertheless, if you have concerns about mercury, all of the routine vaccines are also available without added thimerosal.

IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE

The recommended immunization schedule is updated at least every 12 months by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics. Consult your primary care provider about specific immunizations for you or your child. The current recommendations are available at www.cdc.gov/nip. At every doctor visit, ask about the next recommended immunizations.

TIPS FOR PARENTS

Immunizations must be given as an injection (shot). The following tips can help make the experience easier for your child:

• Tell older children that the shot is needed to keep them safe and healthy. Knowing what to expect ahead of time may reassure the child.
• Explain to the child that it is OK to cry, but suggest that the child try to be brave. Explain that you do not like injections either, but you try to be brave, too. Praise the child after the injection is over, whether or not he or she cries.
• Distract the child at the moment of the injection. For example, point out a picture on the wall, have them count or say their "ABCs", or tell them something funny.
• Try to be calm. The child will notice if you cringe before the shot!
• Plan something fun to do afterward. A trip to the park, eating out, or other entertainment after the shot can make the next one less scary.