At What Age Are Common Vaccinations Recommended for Children?

If you have children, it is important to stay up to date on the vaccination schedule. These are critical to keeping serious illness, diseases and other health conditions away from your children. Your child’s doctor can remind you of what shots are necessary. It is also helpful to be aware of what shot is up next.

Importance of getting a vaccination

Babies, toddlers and children can be especially susceptible to diseases. Airborne, bloodborne and direct contact bacteria and viruses can spread illnesses and disease. While many of these conditions have no cure, other serious diseases do. When a vaccination is available, parents should take advantage for their children. These medications can eradicate disease and prevent children from contracting them. This can also stop the transfer of the condition to other people and throughout communities.

Hepatitis A

This serious liver disease is spread through feces, but a person can get it through food and water too. The disease causes severe illness and can be fatal. Children should first get this vaccination at age 1, with a second dose coming six months to a year and a half later.

Hepatitis B

The vaccination for this disease comes in three doses. The first should be given at a baby’s birth, with the second one coming a month or two later. Dose No. 3 should be delivered before the child hits 18 months. This disease is transferred via blood and other body fluids. The virus can remain in the child’s body for years without anyone knowing. However, it can also lead to death.

Chickenpox

This common childhood illness brings itchy sores and high fevers. The virus is extremely contagious and can lead to pneumonia and brain damage. Thanks to its vaccination, it does not affect nearly as many children as it used to. Still, the disease’s effects can be harmful and even deadly. Vaccinations should occur in two doses, with the first coming at age 1. Parents should arrange for the second vaccination when the child is starting school, around age 4 or 5.

Influenza

Potentially deadly, especially for people with lung and heart conditions, this disease comes with a fever, body aches and chills. Starting at age 6 months, children and adults should get the shot every year. Some younger children may require two doses. In some cases, children with certain health concerns should not get the shot. Parents should speak to the doctor if there are any concerns.

Others

Pediatricians can help parents stay current with their children’s vaccinations. Other important ones include the Diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis vaccine at two months, and the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) at 12 to 15 months. Children should receive the HPV vaccine at age 11 or 12.

Promote good health

Do not forget any vaccination for your child. From the time they are born, your children need these shots to prevent dangerous diseases. If you are not sure where your child stands with vaccinations, follow these guidelines and make an appointment with the pediatrician.

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