Vaccinations for Newborns — What Parents Should Know
Vaccinating your newborn is one of the safest and most effective things you can do for them. Infant vaccinations protect children from serious illness and complications of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, whooping cough and more. Although it can be difficult watching your little one get a shot, rest assured knowing your decision can help your baby’s health in the long run.
Have a newborn at home or one on the way? Here’s what you should know.
Are vaccines safe?
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that vaccines are safe and that a child is far more likely to be seriously harmed by a vaccine-preventable disease than by a vaccine. Licensed vaccines are rigorously tested and undergo multiple trials before going to market, and are regularly reassessed thereafter.
What are the benefits of vaccinations?
Serious diseases are still out there. Children in the United States can, and still do, get some diseases like measles and whooping cough that many people thought were long gone. That’s why vaccinations are so important. They are more effective than anything else at protecting children from 14 serious diseases, and they help protect a child’s family, friends and community, too.
When should my child be vaccinated?
Children need protection early, which is why it’s important to stay informed about national vaccination recommendations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a recommended childhood immunization schedule that is designed to protect infants and children early in life when they are the most vulnerable. This schedule was created based on recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)—a group of medical and public health experts. It is also approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Check the age range when each vaccine or series of shots is recommended, or create a personalized schedule that shows recommended dates for your child.
What can I expect before, during and after my appointment?
There are things you can do before, during and after your child’s visit to make it easier on both of you. Before you head to the doctor’s office, do your homework! Study up on materials you’ve received from your physician and write down any questions you have. It’s also a good idea to bring a familiar book, toy or blanket to the appointment. This will provide comfort and a sense of familiarity.
When your child is about to receive a shot, try distracting them by talking loudly or singing. Smiling and making eye contact can also help reassure your little one that everything is going to be okay. Whenever possible, hold your child firmly on your lap to provide additional comfort and support. After shots have been administered, soothe your baby by swaddling them, offering skin-to-skin contact or breastfeeding.
As with any medicine, there is a chance your baby could experience side effects after vaccination. These are usually mild and will often go away on their own. Contact your pediatrician or go to the emergency room if your baby is experiencing something that concerns you.
For more information about vaccinations and newborn services, talk to your Covenant physician or visit the Covenant HealthCare Maternity page.
Posted Date: 5/3/2017