The most important part of keeping your baby healthy is following their immunization schedule. When you take your little one to the pediatrician in Mulund, a common question you might hear is, “Have you been keeping up with the baby’s vaccination schedule”? That’s because there’s a common misconception surrounding the number of vaccines. People believe it can harm their babies.
On the contrary, vaccinations are designed to create antibodies against specific illnesses that can be deadly for the child. For example, vaccination protects your child from tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacterial infection (to name a few).
Are they Safe?
Your child will be given multiple vaccines before the age of 2 years. In fact, in some of your visits to the child vaccination centre, multiple shots (up to 4 at a time) are administered. It’s natural to worry about multiple vaccinations administered at once and how they will affect your child’s body.
Vaccines are not just safe, but effective in protecting your child from contracting infections that can lead to life-threatening complications. Children are exposed to multiple germs at home and daycare. Their immune system can tolerate different vaccines. These vaccines teach your baby’s immune system to identify and fight pathogens effectively.
One of the reasons the diseases mentioned above have become uncommon and are rarely heard of in many parts of the world is the proper implementation of immunization schedules. They don’t just protect your children, but also prevent the spread of these illnesses.
Does Timing Matter
Your child’s vaccination starts at birth. They are given BCG (which protects them from tuberculosis), OPV (for polio), and hepatitis B. The vaccines are scheduled for 6 weeks, 10 weeks, 14 weeks, and so on.
Rest assured that these vaccines are created and approved after thorough scientific research. The reason they are given so early is that some diseases are more prevalent in infants and can cause medical complications, such as brain damage, liver damage, and, in some cases, death.
For optimal protection, your child must receive vaccinations at the correct time and according to the recommended intervals.
Are there any Side Effects
Yes, vaccines are associated with side effects, but these are usually mild and disappear within 1-2 days. Depending on the vaccine administered, the child may develop a mild fever, soreness, and redness at the injection site.
They might also feel fussy. These side effects are mild and much less complicated than the illnesses that the vaccines protect against. Your pediatrician can explain tips for comforting your child after vaccination.
Illnesses, like polio, whooping cough, measles, and diphtheria, are dangerous for babies. Skipping vaccines or spacing them out is considered unsafe. Make sure you follow the recommended immunization schedule and get your child vaccinated without delays to build their immunity against infections.
Conclusion
Parents who are concerned about the multiple vaccines administered at an early age can rest assured that they are safe and effective. Talk to a pediatrician to learn more about vaccinations in India and the timings.