Every year, leading health experts—including pediatricians—collaborate to review and update the Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule for children and teens up to 18 years old. This schedule, approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other health organizations, is based on the latest scientific research to ensure each vaccine's safety and effectiveness. Only vaccines licensed by the FDA are included in this schedule.
Is the Recommended Vaccine Schedule the Same for Every Child?
Yes, the recommended schedule is designed to be ideal for all healthy children, with very few exceptions. In rare cases, such as for children with chronic health conditions or those on medications that affect their immune system, adjustments may be needed. Your pediatrician can provide guidance tailored to your child’s specific needs.
How Are Vaccines Administered?
Vaccines can be administered in single or multiple doses. The timing of these doses is carefully determined based on:
The age when a child’s immune system is most responsive.
The age when the child is at the highest risk for specific diseases.
Pediatricians stay informed about any changes to the immunization schedule, ensuring your child receives the most current and effective protection.
What If My Child Misses a Scheduled Vaccine?
It's important to follow the recommended immunization schedule to keep your child protected. However, if your child misses a dose, there's no need to start over. Simply contact your pediatrician to arrange the next shot and get back on track.
Should Vaccines Be Spread Out Over Time?
Delaying or spreading out vaccines is not recommended. The immunization schedule is designed to provide protection at the optimal times. Delaying vaccines can leave your child vulnerable to serious diseases during their most critical early years. There’s no scientific evidence supporting the safety or effectiveness of an alternative schedule.
Why Are Multiple Vaccines Given Together?
Research shows that it is safe to give multiple vaccines at one time. In fact, your child’s immune system encounters far more antigens daily from natural exposure than from vaccines. Vaccines are thoroughly tested to ensure they work well together without overwhelming your child’s immune system.
Can My Child Be Vaccinated if They’re Sick?
Even if your child has a mild illness like a cold or low fever, they can usually still receive vaccines safely. Vaccinating during a mild illness is both safe and effective, and it helps keep your child on schedule without needing extra appointments.
Why Vaccinate Against Diseases That Are Rarely Seen Today?
While some diseases, like smallpox, have been eradicated thanks to vaccines, others can still spread if vaccination rates drop. Recent outbreaks of diseases like measles and mumps highlight the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage. Vaccines help prevent the spread of these diseases and protect your child from serious illness.
Can a Vaccine Cause the Disease It’s Meant to Prevent?
No, vaccines do not cause the diseases they protect against. Vaccines contain weakened or inactivated forms of the virus or bacteria, which train your child’s immune system to recognize and fight the real disease without causing illness.
Do Vaccines Cause Autism?
No, vaccines do not cause autism. The misconception arose because autism symptoms often become noticeable around the same time children receive certain vaccines, but extensive research has confirmed no link between the two.
What If My Child Experiences Side Effects?
Mild side effects like a low fever or body aches are common and indicate that the vaccine is working to build your child’s immunity. Serious reactions are very rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks of the diseases they prevent.
Remember
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s vaccines, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician. They can provide the information you need to keep your child healthy and up-to-date with their immunizations.