Immunizations

Immunizations work by helping your immune system recognize and quickly attack diseases before they can cause problems. Some immunizations are given in a single shot while others require several shots over a period of time. 

Childhood immunizations protect against pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, rubella, haemophilus influenza, and hepatitis B. Immunizations also protect against tetanus and diphtheria, although booster shots are needed every 10 years to maintain lifelong protection. 

If your children are immunized, these serious illnesses will not be a problem. Schedule your child's immunizations according to the immunization chart. There is no need to delay immunizations because of colds or other minor illnesses. 

Be sure to keep good records. Children often need to show immunization records at school. 

Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus (DPT/DTaP) 

Infectious diseases like diphtheria and pertussis were major killers before the DPT vaccine was developed. This vaccine also protects against tetanus ("lockjaw"), a bacterial infection that can result when a wound is contaminated. The bacteria enter the body through cuts and thrive only in the absence of oxygen. So the deeper and narrower the wound, the greater the possibility of tetanus. With proper immunization, these diseases are rare. 

Childhood immunizations for these diseases are given together, with a series of shots starting at age two months. DTaP is a newer version of this vaccine. It may cause a less severe reaction in the person receiving the vaccine. Follow the DPT/DTaP guidelines. 

The first booster is given between ages 11 and 16. After that, get a Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster every 10 years. 

Keeping up to date with Td boosters is important because tetanus can be fatal. If it has been at least five years since your last shot, and you have a wound (especially a puncture wound) that is very dirty or that you suspect may be contaminated, get a Td booster. 

Otherwise there is no need for more frequent vaccinations because this increases the risk of an uncomfortable local reaction. 

Polio

Polio is a viral illness that leads to loss of mobility or paralysis. It is rare today because of the polio vaccine. The first vaccine is given at age two months, and the series of immunizations gives lifelong immunity. 

Nonimmunized adults need immunization only if they have a high risk of polio exposure. 

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) 

MMR is an immunization for measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). Two shots (given at 12 to 15 months and either 4 to 6 or 11 to 12 years of age) are recommended. If both doses are given, no further MMR immunization is needed. 

If you have a 6- to 11-month-old child in an area with a measles outbreak, call your doctor or health department to discuss having an early MMR shot. If given early, the dose should be repeated at age 15 months. 

If you don't have records showing that you received two doses of MMR vaccine, and you did not have these illnesses as a child, discuss your need for immunization with your doctor. 

Chickenpox (Varivax)

A chickenpox vaccine (Varivax) is available. The vaccine can be given to children at age 12 months and older, and to teens and adults who have not had the illness. Immunity lasts at least 10 years, but it is not yet clear if booster shots will be needed. You may choose to let young children catch chickenpox, because having the illness provides lifelong immunity. Chickenpox is more serious in teens and adults, so if a child has not had chickenpox by age 11, vaccination may be more important. Adults need a blood test to see if they have ever had chickenpox, and may choose to be vaccinated if they have not. A two-shot series is needed for adults. 

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

The hepatitis B virus causes serious and sometimes fatal liver disease. Vaccination against HBV prevents infection and its complications. 

It is recommended that all infants be vaccinated against HBV. Three shots provide long-term immunity. Immunization is also recommended for: 

• Adolescents who were not previously vaccinated, especially if they are at high risk.
• Health care workers.
• People planning extended travel to China, Southeast Asia, and other areas where HBV infection rates are high. 

Haemophilus influenzae 
Type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b does not cause the flu. It is a serious bacterial illness that causes meningitis and may lead to brain damage and death. Most serious Hib disease affects children between six months and one year of age. Every child between two months and five years should be immunized against Hib. Children over five and adults need immunizations only if they have sickle cell anemia or spleen problems.

Reactions to Childhood Immunizations Temporary, mild reactions to immunizations are common. Babies often develop a fever after the DPT shot, and the location of the shot may be hard. A mild rash or fever may develop 10 to 14 days after the MMR vaccine is given. The rash will go away without treatment. The hepatitis B vaccines have caused nausea, low-grade fever, rash, and joint pain in some adults. Acetaminophen may soothe the discomfort and relieve fever. Some doctors recommend giving acetaminophen before the shot. Keep written notes on any reactions you observe. Tell your health professional if you think the reactions are excessive.

Immunizations After Age 65

Annual influenza vaccinations are recommended for everyone age 65 and older. The vaccines are most effective when given in the autumn.

A one-time pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for those 65 and older.

Younger people with chronic diseases, especially respiratory illnesses, should also consider receiving annual or biannual flu shots and the pneumococcal vaccine. This immunization may be repeated every six years.

Other Immunizations

If you are in close contact with people who have an infectious disease or you are planning travel to areas where illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, and yellow fever are common, talk with your health department to ask if other immunizations are needed.

Tuberculin Test

A tuberculin test is a skin test for tuberculosis, not an immunization. A positive result does not necessarily mean that you have tuberculosis, but it does mean the bacteria have probably entered your body. Whether you should be tested depends on the prevalence of tuberculosis in your area and your risk of exposure. Once you have had a positive skin test, the test should not be repeated. Subsequent tests will always be positive and may cause more severe reactions.

Be Wise, Immunize It's wise to immunize. Immunizations: Prevent disease. Cost much less than treating the diseases they prevent. Are safe and effective. Reduce the risk of epidemics. Are the law. Children must be immunized (or the parents must sign a certificate of exemption) before they can begin public school.