Your baby’s health is probably one of the biggest items on your mind. When you are considering issues of baby health care, one of the most important factors is vaccinations. You need to get the right vaccinations to help protect your baby from some of the most dangerous and common childhood illnesses.
Which vaccinations should you consider for your infant? Before we start through the list, keep in mind, it is critical you discuss your decisions with your baby’s pediatrician, and listen closely to their advice. While as a parent we hate to see our baby suffer through the injections, we must make an informed decision to protect our baby’s health with vaccinations which will protect them through childhood, and many times, throughout their lives.
The first vaccination you should expect is Hepatitis B. This vaccination is given shortly after birth. This vaccination is important to protect the liver. Your baby will receive additional injections of this important vaccination at about 2 months, and another injection later, between 6 and 18 months. The other critical vaccination for protecting the liver is the Hepatitis A vaccination. Normally the first injection of this vaccine is around 1 year old, and then the second injection 6 months later.
One of the most common vaccinations is the combination DTaP vaccine. This vaccine protects from Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis, more commonly know as the whooping cough. Your infant will receive injections at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 18 months. You can expect additional boosters at around 6 years old, and 11 years old.
Another important vaccination to plan for in your baby health care is the MMR. This vaccine protects your child from Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. The first injection normally is administered at about 12 to 15 months, followed with another vaccination between 4 and 6 years old.
This is just the start of the important vaccinations you will want as part of your baby health care plan. These vaccinations prevent potentially life threatening illnesses, scarring diseases, and illnesses which can have long term health implications. They are very safe, with only a microscopic percentage of infants or children having any adverse reactions.
The most common side effect to many vaccinations is a low grade fever and irritability. Make sure to consult with your pediatrician or health care professional about which fever reducing medications you can use. Many doctors recommend giving your infant a dose of children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen before they receive the vaccination. Do not give any medication without consulting your doctor first.
As you can quickly see, it is critical you speak to your pediatrician, health department, or other health professional to formulate a baby health care plan for your infant. You do not want to take any risks with their health. Your baby, toddlers, and children are counting on your to make the proper decisions to keep them healthy, and enjoying life. You will be glad you did. The temporary fussy baby from a vaccination is definitely better than a very ill child heading to the hospital.