Immunizations are key to keeping kids healthy

Ask your grandparents. When they were kids many contagious diseases were common: measles, chicken pox and mumps. They might have experienced uncomfortable symptoms such as itchy rashes, painful blisters, persistent coughs or high fevers. But in some cases there were more severe outcomes, such as hospitalization with meningitis or the crippling consequences of polio. “We’ve been very lucky to have vaccines,” said Marnie Baker, M.D., M.P.H., pediatrician with MemorialCare Medical Group. “Some diseases once considered commonplace — such as measles or polio — are now mostly eradicated. Over time, we have achieved herd immunity due to the success of vaccines. When vaccination rates decline, outbreaks of these diseases can occur.”

“We have not achieved herd immunity for some other germs, like influenza, because they evolve and change rapidly,” Dr. Baker continued. “However, regular vaccinations can help reduce transmission and severity of illness, as well as protect you from hospitalization and death.”

“This is the time of year to remind parents that immunizations not only protect their own kids, but also everybody else,”

Dr. Baker said.

Immunizations start shortly after birth and the timing of vaccinations is based on when children are most vulnerable to diseases. For example, newborns are inoculated against Hepatitis B. At two months old, vaccinations include rotavirus and whooping cough. Later, toddlers are immunized against measles, mumps, rubella and chicken pox. Between ages 4 and 6, children are given boosters in preparation for the beginning of school.

“Vaccinations are specifically timed for children when they need it most,” Dr. Baker said. “Staying on schedule prevents outbreaks and community spread. It is an amazing achievement.”

When the rate of vaccination is low, the risk of disease rises — for everyone. We have experienced outbreaks of polio and measles because parents have increasingly been declining immunizations.

“There definitely has been some erosion of trust in vaccines in general,” Dr. Baker said. “Parents have concerns about possible side effects, such as allergic reactions. However, these reactions are extremely rare,” Dr. Baker emphasized. “While allergic reactions to vaccines may be worrisome for parents, the diseases they aim to prevent may have far more serious complications and long-term effects.”

“Children that are home-schooled have lower vaccination rates, and we have an increasing number of kids that are being home-schooled. When some children are not vaccinated, overall vaccination rates drop, and disease outbreaks can occur. Vaccines don’t just protect one child, they protect all children — and the whole community,” Dr. Baker explained.

“It is important for parents to meet with their child’s pediatrician when they have questions about immunizations. Pediatricians have access to the latest scientific data and information — we are not there to change anyone’s mind — but to address concerns parents may have. Let’s get children vaccinated and protect them from preventable disease.” Dr. Baker concluded.