Introduction

Immunizations against childhood diseases have saved millions of lives. American vaccination rates are now at an all-time high. Disease and death from diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae) type b are at or near record lows. In adults, immunizations against influenza (the flu), pneumococcal pneumonia, hepatitis, and other ailments have likewise saved many lives and prevented may more cases of serious illness.

More than 70 bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other infectious microbes cause major human disease. Fortunately, vaccines are either available or being developed against many of them. With the advent of new or newly feared biological threats, emerging infections, and bacterial resistance to common antibiotics, immunizations are assuming an increasingly important role in maintaining the health of billions of people worldwide.

Immunizations (vaccinations) are given to initiate or augment resistance to an infectious disease. Immunizations provide a specialized form of immunity that provides long-lasting protection against specific antigens, which cause disease.

General Guidelines

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Routine Childhood Vaccines. Experts recommend that all children be routinely vaccinated against the following diseases:

• Measles.
• Mumps.
• Rubella (German measles).
• Diphtheria.
• Tetanus.
• Pertussis (whooping cough).
• Poliomyelitis (polio).
• Chickenpox.
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis A (recommended in selected states and in certain high-risk populations).
• H. influenzae type B (a cause of meningitis).
• Influenza (children aged 6-23 months).
• Pneumococcal disease.