Vaccinations

Are Vaccines, Vaccinations, and Immunications Different?

No. Vaccinations introduce the disease-causing organisms into your body in a dead or weakened state. That way your immune system starts building up antibodies to fight them.

The terms “immunizations,” “vaccines,” and “vaccinations” are often used interchangeably. Immunization is the technical term that describes the process your body goes through to build strength and ward off specific harmful organisms. Vaccines/vaccinations ultimately immunize your body against a particular disease.

Which vaccines does my child need?

Your child starts getting vaccines right after birth and continues this process for much of his or her life. Typical vaccine schedules include:

• Chickenpox

• Influenza

• Tetanus

• Hepatitis A and B

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)

• Whooping cough

• Bacterial meningitis

• Polio

• Pneumococcus

• Hemophilus Influenzae

Your child may need additional vaccines, depending on their age.

If your child is behind on certain immunizations, they might need to catch up and receive other types of injections. By the end of your first visit with your dedicated pediatrician, you know exactly which immunizations your child needs and can book those future appointments on the spot.

Should I worry if my child reacts to a vaccine?

Not necessarily. It’s normal for children to have minor reactions to shots. Your child may experience:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site

• Stiffness or soreness

• A mild fever

• Mild joint pain

• Poor appetite

• Crankiness or moodiness

If your young one gets the chicken pox or MMR shot, they could develop a mild rash about a week or two after getting the injection. This is completely normal sign that your child’s body is building up immunity to the foreign organisms.

Serious reactions to vaccines and vaccinations are rare, but if your child has difficulty breathing or a high fever, call the office right away.