Why Are Vaccines Important?
Vaccines are like tiny shields. They help your child fight off dangerous germs that can make them very sick. Getting these shots will help your child stay healthy and happy.
Ages 12-15 Months:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): This shot helps protect your child from three serious diseases.
- Varicella (Chickenpox): This vaccine keeps your child safe from chickenpox, a disease that causes itchy red spots and fevers.
- Hepatitis A: The first dose of this vaccine protects your child from a liver disease called hepatitis A.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): This shot guards against infections that can lead to pneumonia and meningitis.
- Pneumococcal (PCV): This vaccine protects against infections that can cause lung infections and other serious illnesses.
Ages 18-24 Months:
- Hepatitis A: The second dose of this vaccine is given six months after the first dose.
- Influenza (Flu): This vaccine should be given every year to protect against the flu.
Keep Track of Vaccines
Make sure to keep a record of your child’s vaccines. Your doctor will help you stay on schedule and make sure your child gets all the shots they need.
After getting vaccinated, children might experience some mild side effects. Here are some common reactions and how to help your child feel better:
Common Reactions:
- Pain or swelling at the injection site: This is normal and usually goes away within a few days.
- Fussiness or crying: Your child might be a bit cranky for a day or two.
- Low-grade fever: A slight fever is common and usually not a cause for concern.
- Tiredness or sleepiness: Your child might feel more tired than usual.
- Loss of appetite: They might not feel like eating much for a short time.
How to Help:
- Comfort: Give your child lots of cuddles and comfort.
- Cool cloth: Apply a cool, wet cloth to the injection site to reduce swelling and pain.
- Fluids: Offer plenty of fluids to keep them hydrated.
- Light clothing: Dress your child in light clothing if they have a fever.
- Pain relief: If needed, you can give your child a pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), but always follow the dosage instructions on the label.
When to Call the Doctor:
- High fever: If your child has a fever over 39°C (102.2°F) or if the fever lasts more than 1 day.
- Severe reactions: If your child has trouble breathing, hives, or swelling in the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately.
Most side effects are mild and go away on their own within a few days. If you have any concerns, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor.
Fun Fact!
Did you know that the first vaccine was created over 200 years ago to fight smallpox? It’s amazing how much vaccines have helped us stay healthy!
Vaccines are a powerful way to keep your child healthy and strong. Follow the vaccination schedule, and your child will have the best protection against these diseases. Stay healthy, and remember to visit the doctor for those important shots! 💉💪
Here is a website you can refer to for more information on the vaccination schedule for ages 12-24 months:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC provides detailed immunization schedules for children and adolescents. You can find the schedule for children aged 12-24 months on their website here. Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule by Age | Vaccines & Immunizations | CDC
