Most parents see immunization as important for guarding their children’s health. However, some parents worry if vaccines are really safe. If you are a parent who shares this concern, here is what you should know.
Vaccines work safely with the body’s natural defenses to build immunity to disease. Like any medicine, vaccines can cause mild side effects, but there is little need to worry. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States has the safest vaccine supply in its history. Our nation also has a long-standing vaccine safety program.
Many diseases have been wiped out by vaccines in the United States. Because of this, some parents may wonder if they are still necessary. If they decide not to immunize their child, though, the child can be put at risk.
In fact, we know the decision not to vaccinate has caused a return of some diseases. The Arkansas Department of Health recently reported around 3,000 cases of mumps in the state. Mumps is an illness normally prevented by vaccination.
We need to remember that some of the diseases we stopped seeing in the U.S. are still active in other parts of the world. This means that children who have not been immunized can still be exposed to the germs that cause those illnesses.
Making sure a child gets all of their immunizations is vital to protecting that child’s health. If you are worried about vaccine safety for your child, your family pediatrician can answer any questions you may have.
For more information about immunizations, view this video.
See Preventive Care Benefits for a list of covered children's immunizations.
