What are the Vaccines for Children?

Infants are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases and that is why it is critical to protect them through immunizations. These vaccinations are very important, not just for your baby to protect them, but also for everyone else he or she comes in contact with too. Imagine if all infants, toddlers, and kids were completely vaccinated, then that in turn may benefit children and adults who have a weak immune system. They may be able to interact with other people too with minimal risk of getting infected.

Vaccines are also recommended for very young children because their immune systems are not yet fully mature and also because their stomachs produce less acid, making it easier for ingested bacteria and viruses to multiply. These factors leave them the most vulnerable to the preventable complications serious diseases. So what are the recommended vaccines for children?

Chickenpox -Your child needs 2 doses of chickenpox vaccine.

Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough – Your child needs 5 doses of DTaP vaccine.

Haemophilus influenzae type b – Your child needs 3–4 doses of Hib vaccine, depending on the brand of vaccine.

Hepatitis B – Your child needs 3–4 doses of hepatitis B vaccine, depending on the brand of vaccine.

Influenza – Everyone infant 6 months and older needs influenza vaccination every fall or winter and for the rest of their lives.

Measles, mumps, rubella – Your child needs 2 doses of MMR vaccine.

Meningococcal – Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV) is recommended for infants and children with certain health conditions.

Pneumococcal – Your child needs 4 doses of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

Polio – Your child needs 4 doses of polio vaccine

Rotavirus – Your child needs 2–3 doses of rotavirus vaccine (RV), depending on the brand of vaccine.

It may seem like a lot of vaccines for children, but it is one of the most important things you can do as a parent to protect your children’s health.  If your child misses a shot, you don’t need to start over, just go back to your child’s doctor for the next shot. Talk to your Pediatrician if you have questions about vaccines.