Why does vaccination begin at such a young age? It is believed by many medical professionals that diseases and sicknesses can be prevented by administering strong doses of vaccines at an early age. The most common vaccines administered at this time are for measles, rabies, hepatitis, rotavirus, chickenpox, and smallpox. When a child is diagnosed with a disease or illness, it is the parents that have the responsibility to make arrangements for vaccinations.
Why do some parents want to have their children receive vaccinations before they are born? There are a variety of reasons, but most have to do with preventing illness. Many diseases and illnesses are spread by humans through the air we breathe, touch, and especially the mouth. It is easy to protect a baby or toddler from these common carrier forms by administering small doses of vaccines before birth.
Some illnesses, however, cannot be prevented. These types of diseases include measles, rubella, meningitis, hepatitis B, and even genital warts. To protect these children, vaccines must be administered. Some vaccines prevent serious diseases, like polio and smallpox; others, like measles, seem to be more effective in preventing outbreaks and preventing recovery.
Why do some parents choose unwisely when it comes to the age at which vaccinations begin? Some believe that vaccines should be required for everyone and not just those born within a certain age range. This can be very impractical for a parent who travels frequently. Others believe that if the child is healthy before he or she receives vaccinations, then the child will not develop any ailments that can result from being un-vaccinated.
Why does vaccination work best when a child is younger? For one thing, an immune system that has been developed and strengthened during childhood is less likely to weaken after a vaccination. Also, a child's immune system may not have developed as much as it would have by the time of delivery. Lastly, vaccines are most effective when given in the first year of life.
How many vaccinations should I give my child? There is no set number of total vaccinations, although most doctors recommend that babies receive eight to ten doses of routine vaccines between the ages of four to six months old. Between two and three weeks of age is the best age range to receive one dose of a rotavirus vaccine.
Why do some shots have multiple doses? Sometimes a child may need a secondary or complementary dose after receiving his or her first dose of a particular vaccine. A common example is the diphtheria-proviruses, which may be given in two doses. Sometimes a single dose of a rotavirus vaccine is sufficient for the protection of your child.
How many vaccinations should I give my child? Your doctor can provide you with an exact number based on his experience. For your children, the best approach is to plan early. If you notice that your child might need a vaccination, you should schedule a visit with your health care provider before your next trip to the pediatrician. Don't wait until your next trip to make this important decision! Your child's immunity is developing at a fast pace, so don't let the day get away from you before you need to schedule some vaccinations.
Why do some vaccinations require my child to have booster shots? Booster shots are usually recommended when your child is between six and eight weeks old. Booster shots are necessary to give your child enough immune support, so he or she will not become too sick after receiving his or her first dose of any vaccinations. Once you start your child out on a healthy diet, he or she will usually get the needed vaccinations automatically, without your help. The most common boosters are Prevacid, Gardasil, Rubella, Hepatitis B, and Mumps.
Why don't some vaccinations start at different ages? Some vaccinations are considered "puppy vaccines," because they are intended to be started after your puppy is four months old or at most, after your first birthday. Other vaccinations, however, are considered childhood vaccinations, meaning they should be started before your child reaches the age of one year. Generally speaking, vaccines are very safe for young children, but there can be certain vaccines that your child may need that a later age would not normally allow.
Why is it important to know what vaccines your child receives? Most diseases require multiple doses to be fully effective, and some viruses can be spread by the bacteria in the vaccines themselves, making them more difficult to protect your child against. Knowing the exact vaccinations your child needs is critical to his or her long-term health and well-being. Knowing the answer to the question "why does vaccination begin at such a young age?"
