Every year, National Infant Immunization Week shines a spotlight on the importance of protecting infants and young children from serious diseases. This year, April 21–28 serves as a reminder for parents and caregivers to keep their children up to date on their immunizations.
Vaccines play a vital role in safeguarding babies, especially those under 2 years old, when they are most vulnerable to infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed a recommended immunization schedule to provide protection at key stages of early development. Following this schedule is one of the most effective ways to prevent potentially life-threatening diseases.
Why are vaccines important?
Newborns enter the world with some immunity from their mothers, but this protection fades within months. Without vaccines, infants are at high risk of contracting serious illnesses like whooping cough, pneumonia, meningitis, measles and chickenpox.
Vaccines work by helping a baby’s immune system recognize and fight specific infections. They introduce a harmless version of a virus or bacteria, allowing the body to build defenses against it. If the child is later exposed to the actual disease, their immune system will recognize and fight it off more effectively.
Vaccination programs have had a tremendous impact on public health. Diseases like smallpox have been completely eradicated, and polio has nearly disappeared worldwide. Thanks to vaccines, many once-common illnesses are now rare in the U.S.
Are vaccines safe?
Parents may have concerns about vaccine safety, but extensive research shows that vaccines are safe and effective. Before they are approved for use, vaccines go through rigorous testing in clinical trials.
Once in use, they continue to be monitored by health organizations like the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration to ensure their safety. Mild side effects, such as slight swelling or a low fever, can sometimes occur after vaccination. However, serious reactions are extremely rare.
The benefits of immunization far outweigh the risks, as these vaccines prevent diseases that can cause severe complications or even death.
Community immunity: Protecting everyone
Vaccinating infants does not just protect them, it also helps safeguard the entire community. This concept, known as herd immunity, occurs when a large portion of the population has been vaccinated and develops antibodies against a disease.
Herd immunity is especially crucial for individuals who cannot receive certain vaccines, such as newborns, cancer patients, or those with weakened immune systems. When more people are vaccinated, the spread of disease slows, reducing outbreaks and protecting those most at risk.
Cost should not be a barrier
Some families may worry about the cost of vaccines, but financial concerns should not prevent children from receiving necessary immunizations. Most health insurance plans cover vaccines as part of routine preventive care.
For families without insurance, programs like Vaccines for Children provide free or low-cost immunizations to eligible children. Local health departments, community clinics, and pediatricians often participate in these programs, making it easier for parents to access vaccinations for their children. If cost is a concern, parents should ask their healthcare provider about available resources.
A healthy start in life
Ensuring that infants receive their recommended vaccinations is one of the best ways to give them a healthy start in life. By following the CDCs immunization schedule, parents can help protect their children from dangerous diseases, reduce the risk of outbreaks, and contribute to a healthier community.
As National Infant Immunization Week approaches, it is the perfect time for parents to review their child’s vaccination records and schedule any needed appointments. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider to ensure they are up to date on their immunizations — because vaccines save lives.
For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, visit gethealthycarsoncity.org, or call 775-887-2195. You can visit the CCHHS office at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City or follow CCHHS on Facebook at facebook.com/cchhs, or Instagram at GetHealthyCarsonCity.