So are vaccines safe? Which vaccine schedule should I use for my child? Will there be any side effects? These are all very common questions when it comes to starting the vaccine process for your child.
WellStar Pediatrics has full confidence that vaccinations are safe and recommends the schedule endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
“We realize that there are many fears and misconceptions about vaccines,” said Enid Colon, M.D., WellStar Medical Group, WellStar Pediatric Professionals. “But medical evidence indicates vaccinations are safe and protect our children from very dangerous and sometimes fatal diseases.”
According to the CDC, vaccines have reduced or eliminated many infectious diseases in the United States that once routinely killed or harmed many infants, children and adults. However, the viruses and bacteria that cause vaccine-preventable disease and death still exist and can be passed on to people who have not been adequately protected.
“It is extremely important that we vaccinate our children,” said Dr. Colon. “The side effects are typically minimal and can include soreness or redness in the injection area and fever.”
Once your children’s vaccinations are complete, there are still booster vaccinations they should receive on a regular basis, such as a tetanus shot every 10 years and an annual flu shot.
“Flu season affects our community every year and can result in serious medical complications,” added Dr. Colon. “Furthermore, it can have detrimental effects on school attendance and loss of work days for parents taking care of affected children. Receiving a flu vaccination is an easy way of protecting you and your children from these risks. All of our WellStar pediatric offices provide the influenza vaccine, some even to the parents. We encourage our patients to ask our pediatricians for information regarding any of the vaccines currently in use.”
For more information on the recommended vaccine schedule, go to http://www.aap.org/immunization/izschedule.html. For more information on vaccines, go to http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/why.htm. For a physician referral, call 770-956-STAR.