WHAT DO VACCINES PREVENT?
Measles
Mumps
Polio
Rubella (German Measles)
Pertussis
Diphtheria
Tetanus
Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib
disease)
Hepatitis B
Varicella (Chicken Pox)
A vaccination health record helps keep your child on schedule. A record should be started at birth when he/she receives her first vaccination and updated each time he/she receives the next scheduled vaccination. This information will help you if you move or change doctors, or when your child is in day care or starts school. Bring this record with you to the doctors office.
Children need immunizations (shots) to protect them from dangerous childhood diseases. These diseases have serious complications and can even kill children.
Serious reactions to vaccines are extremely rare, but do occur. However, the risks of serious disease from not vaccinating are far greater than the risks of serious reaction to the vaccination.
Immunizations must begin at birth and most vaccinations are completed by age 2. By immunizing on time (by age 2), you can protect your child from being infected and prevent the infection of others at school or day care centers. Children under 5 are especially susceptible to disease because their immune system have not built up the defenses needed to fight infection.
Side effects such as slight fever, rash or soreness can occur. Slight discomfort is normal and should not be a cause for alarm. Your health care provider can assist you with additional information.
The Vaccines for Children Program will provide FREE vaccines to children without health insurance coverage, all those who are enrolled in Medicaid, American Indians and Alaskan Natives.
Call the National Immunizations Information
Hotline for further immunization information at
1-800-232-2552 (English) or
1-800-232-0233 (Spanish).
