What diseases do vaccines protect against?
Vaccines protect against measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis B, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), Hib disease, chickenpox, and rotavirus. Vaccines can't prevent children from getting minor illnesses like colds, but they can keep children safe from many serious diseases. Without vaccinations, your child could get very sick.

Isn't all this talk about diseases just a way to scare parents so they'll bring their children in for shots?
No! Many of these diseases still kill people. From 1989 through 1991, more than 150 people in the United States died from measles and thousands more were permanently damaged. Children in the United States also continue to die from chickenpox. When children get measles, chickenpox, and other diseases that vaccines could have prevented, they can also suffer from brain damage, hearing loss, heart problems, and lung damage.

I don't know anybody who has had mumps or rubella. Why does my baby need these shots?
You might not think that these diseases are a serious threat today because you don't see or hear much about them but they are still around. If we stop vaccinating against these diseases, many more people will become infected. Vaccinating your child will keep him or her safe.

Are vaccinations safe?
Most vaccines cause only minor side effects, such as soreness where the shot was given or a slight fever. These side effects do not last long and are treatable. Serious reactions are very rare. Remember, if your child gets one of these dangerous childhood diseases, the risks of the disease are far greater than the risk of a serious vaccine reaction. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor or nurse.

What if my child has a cold, a fever, or is taking antibiotics? Can he or she still get vaccinated?
Yes. Your child can be vaccinated if he or she has a mild illness such as a cold, a slight fever, or is taking antibiotics. Talk to your doctor or nurse if you have questions.

How many times do I need to take my baby in for vaccinations?
A lot! Your baby needs at least five visits to the doctor for vaccinations before he or she is two years old. All these visits are necessary because there are eleven diseases your baby needs to be protected against and most require several doses for full protection. Your child will also need vaccinations between the ages of 4 and 6, and then again when he or she is 11-12.

How do I know when to take my baby in for shots?
If you are not sure, call your clinic or your local health department to find out when the next shots are due. Every time your child gets vaccinated, make sure you know when to bring him or her back for the next set of shots.

How do I keep track of my baby's shots?
You need a personal record card of your child's immunizations. This card should be brought with you to all medical appointments. Whenever your child receives vaccinations, make sure your clinic updates your child's shot record.

What if I miss an appointment? Does my baby have to get the shots all over again?
No. If your baby misses some vaccinations, it's not necessary to start over. Your clinic will continue the shots from where they left off.

What if my child is older than two? Is it too late to get him or her vaccinated?
No. Although it's best to have your child vaccinated as a baby, it's never too late to start. If your baby did not receive his or her shots, now is the time to start.

What if I can't afford to get my child vaccinated?
Vaccinations are usually free for children when families can't afford them. Call 800-232-2522 or your local or state health department to find out where you can go for vaccinations. Your child's health depends on it!

And here's a friendly reminder for parents:
Adults need shots, too! Call your clinic or health department to find out what shots you need or when your next shots are due! Your baby is counting on you!

This brochure was created by the Child Vaccination Program, New York City, and was modified and reprinted. It may be reproduced without permission. 

See Also:  Risk and Benefits of Shots