Why Immunization Matters: 6 Benefits for Kids

Immunization is the process of protecting against a disease through vaccination. It is the act of introducing a vaccine into a person’s body. It saves lives as it helps protect against life-threatening diseases. Timing of immunizations for children is critical to ensure maximum protection against vaccine-preventable diseases, including polio and measles. During World Immunization Week between April 24 and 30, we’ll tell you why it’s important to vaccinate children.

What is immunization?

Immunization is a method used to protect people from infectious diseases by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens (such as viruses or bacteria) before they cause disease. The process usually involves administering a vaccine, which contains a weakened or inactivated form of the microorganism, shares Dr. Abhishek Chopra, neonatologist and pediatrician. This exposure triggers the body’s immune response, leading to the production of antibodies and memory cells that can recognize and respond quickly to the true pathogen when encountered in the future. Therefore, vaccinated individuals are less likely to contract the disease and less likely to spread it to others.

Why is it important to vaccinate children?

There are vaccines for adults, but immunization is important for children as well. Here are six main reasons why immunizations are important for children:

1. Prevention of diseases

Currently, immunization prevents 3.5 to 5 million deaths each year from diseases such as measles and tetanus. World Health Organization, these diseases can cause serious complications, including brain damage. Vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of contracting these diseases.

2. Reducing the spread of disease

Vaccination not only protects vaccinated children, but also helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the community. The expert said that when a large part of the population is vaccinated, the transmission of diseases will be reduced significantly.

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3. Effective and safe

Vaccines are tested before the green signal is given. They are designed to prevent diseases safely and effectively without harming those who are getting them. Serious side effects from vaccines are rare compared to the risks associated with diseases that vaccines prevent.

4. Cost effective

The cost of vaccinating children is far less than the cost of treating a child with a vaccine-preventable disease. Also, preventing these diseases can reduce healthcare costs related to hospitalizations, treatments, and long-term disabilities.

5. Protection of future generations

Vaccines have played a vital role in reducing and eradicating disease in the world. By ensuring high vaccination coverage among children, future generations can be protected from once widespread and deadly diseases.

6. School admission and travel requirements

Many schools and child care facilities require proof of vaccination for enrollment. Some countries also require specific vaccinations for travel purposes. Keeping children up-to-date with vaccinations ensures they meet these requirements and can participate in educational and travel opportunities without restrictions.

Which diseases can be prevented by vaccination?

Vaccination is a powerful tool to prevent various infectious diseases. For example, during the coronavirus pandemic, the Covid-19 vaccine was said to fight the virus that causes the deadly disease. Here are some other diseases or infections that can be prevented by vaccination:

1. Measles

A highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, rash and cough. Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and death.

2. Mumps

It is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the salivary glands. Complications may include deafness and swelling of the testicles or ovaries, says Dr. Chopra.

3. Polio

It is a disease that can cause paralysis and even death. Thanks to vaccination efforts, polio has been nearly eradicated from the world.

4. Diphtheria

It is a bacterial infection that can cause serious throat and breathing problems. It can also lead to heart failure and nerve damage.

5. Tetanus

Bacterial infection that causes severe muscle pain can be fatal. Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in soil and enter the body when a person is injured.

6. Pertussis or whooping cough

A highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract that causes a severe cough. Pertussis is fatal, especially in infants.

When is the right time to vaccinate children?

Vaccinations are usually administered according to recommended schedules developed by public health authorities. For example, UNICEF It recommends the first dose of oral polio vaccine to be given at birth. The next dose is given when the child is 6 weeks old and the third dose is given at 10 weeks of age. The last one is given at 14 weeks of age.

Are there any side effects of vaccinating children?

Vaccines can have side effects, but most of these side effects are mild and temporary, says Dr. Chopra. Here are some key points about vaccine side effects:

1. Common side effects

Many vaccines cause mild and temporary side effects, including:

• the pain
• Redness, or swelling at the injection site
• A low-grade fever
• Mild confusion or irritability
• Fatigue or mild muscle aches

2. Serious side effects

Serious side effects from vaccines are very uncommon, but may include:

• Allergic reactions such as hives, swelling and difficulty breathing
• High fever (this is rare and usually resolves quickly)
• Seizures

Most children do not experience serious side effects from vaccines. The benefits of vaccination in preventing disease and protecting people far outweigh the minimal risks of vaccination. If parents have concerns about vaccines or potential side effects, they should discuss them with a doctor.