Why Are Immunizations Important?

Why Are Immunizations Important?

Immunizations help to protect your child from serious infectious diseases. Not only that, but they also help to minimize the spread of disease throughout the broader community. The team of pediatric specialists at Downers Grove Pediatrics, based in Downers Grove and Bolingbrook, IL, can advise you on the right times to get immunizations for your children.

What Disease do Immunizations Protect Against?

Vaccinations protect your child from a wide range of diseases that could cause serious ongoing conditions such as deafness and brain damage. In the United States, we have high community immunization rates, which means that many of these diseases are uncommon. However, they do still exist so, it’s very important to get your child immunized. Vaccinations protect your child from the following diseases:

• Measles
• Rubella (German measles)
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Mumps
• Tetanus
• Pneumococcal disease
• Hepatitis A and B
• Human papillomavirus
• Polio
• Diphtheria
• Rotavirus

Bolingbrook and Downers Grove residents know they can count on Downers Grove Pediatrics for all their pediatric immunization needs.

When Does My Child Need Vaccines?

Some immunization shots are given earlier than others. For example, the first hepatitis B vaccine is typically given to your child within 24 hours of birth. The second dose will be given when your child is 1-2 months old. Many of the other vaccines, such as pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, and rotavirus will be given within the first 6 months. Your child may have their first flu vaccine at 6 months and older. Some of the vaccines, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis will require a booster shot. The ages range may vary depending on where you live and the general health of your child.

You can contact the pediatric team at Bolingbrook on 630-759-9230, and at Downers Grove, IL on 630-852-4551. The team will be happy to answer all your questions about immunizations for your child.