How to Properly Immunize Your Child

Immunizations are a vital part of childcare. Immunizing a child is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give to their offspring, a gift that ensures that your child won't succumb to childhood diseases that used to carry a high mortality rate. However, because of such immunizations that occurred during the 1950's and 1960's, many of these common diseases disappeared for years, especially in the United States. Because of this, many new parents are neglecting to immunize their children, and diseases we haven't seen for years, sometimes decades, are making a comeback.

While many new parents fear the side effects that occasionally accompany immunizations, the results of contracting childhood diseases are much more devastating. Guidelines for the correct immunization of children are available from any doctor or community health office in your area, and should not be ignored. Knowing how and when to immunize your child is vital for their health and well-being. Some common childhood diseases that are preventable, and which immunizations are available for, are:

Hepatitis B - 3 series: Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. This condition can affect babies who acquire it from infected mothers during the birth process. Since Hepatitis B can cause chronic liver disease pediatricians advise that children receive three shots during their first year.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) - also known as DPT - 6 series: Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that is prevalent where hygiene is poor and is rare in the United States, only because of adequate immunization. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is also a contagious bacterial infection that causes mucous buildup, as well as narrowing and inflammation of the airways. This disease can cause brain and lung damage unless properly treated. Tetanus is also a bacterial infection that causes damage to brain and nerve cells.

Haemophilus influenzae Type b - 4 series: Infants are particularly vulnerable to this flu virus, which can produce ear infections and meningitis. When administered properly, it offers a near 100% protection rate.