Immunizations keep our children healthy and safe from preventable diseases. They work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight off specific germs, creating a protective shield against measles, whooping cough, and flu. Think of them as a training camp for the immune system, preparing it to tackle infections before they have a chance to take hold.
For children, immunizations are vital because their developing immune systems are more vulnerable to diseases. When a large portion of the population is vaccinated, it becomes harder for diseases to spread, which protects even those unable to receive immunizations in Glenn Dale or Oxon Hill, MD, due to medical reasons.
At Maryland Children Health Center, we recommend following the recommended vaccination schedule, which typically starts at birth and continues through adolescence. Regular visits to the center ensure your child receives the right vaccines at the appropriate times, boosting their immunity as they grow. If you're ever unsure about when to bring your child in or have questions about vaccines, the friendly staff at Maryland Children Health Center are always there to guide and support you.
Understanding the Immunization Schedule: From Infancy to Adulthood
From birth, your baby will receive their first vaccines to fend off serious illnesses like hepatitis B and diphtheria. As your child grows, they’ll need additional doses to stay protected. For instance, between 12 and 15 months, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. This series is essential for shielding against these potentially severe illnesses.
As children approach school age, booster shots become paramount. At around four to six years old, kids should get their DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) booster and their final doses of the polio vaccine. This immunization ensures they remain protected as they enter environments where they might become exposed to these diseases.
Adolescents also have explicit vaccine needs. The AAP advises that teens receive the Tdap booster and the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine, starting around 11 to 12 years old. These vaccines are vital for continuing protection and preventing certain cancers later in life. Even as adults, staying up-to-date with immunizations in Glenn Dale and Oxon Hill, MD, is crucial. For example, the AAP recommends a yearly flu shot to combat seasonal influenza and a Td booster every decade to maintain tetanus and diphtheria protection.
Schedule Immunizations With Maryland Children Health Center
Understanding the immunization schedule is crucial for safeguarding health from infancy through adulthood. Vaccines prevent profound diseases and protect individuals and communities. Schedule immunizations with Maryland Children's Health Center as soon as possible, ideally before school starts, to ensure timely protection.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services we provide. We have two locations for patients if you have questions or concerns regarding immunizations in Glenn Dale and Oxon Hill, MD, and want to schedule an appointment at Maryland Children Health Center. You can call (301) 218-0398 for our Glenn Dale office or (301) 567-1767 for the Oxon Hill location.