Why Vaccines Matter

Parent resource

Why vaccines matter

On-time vaccination throughout infancy and childhood is essential because it helps protect children before they are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases. Vaccines are extensively tested to ensure they are safe and effective when given at the recommended ages. Our office follows the immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Combination vaccines

To reduce the number of injections your child receives, we use several combination vaccines. Combination vaccines contain two or more vaccines that could otherwise be given separately, allowing children to receive protection with fewer shots.

As new vaccine combinations become available, or when vaccine supplies change, we may periodically adjust our schedule. When a combination vaccine is used in our office, the individual vaccine components may not be available separately.

Understanding immunity

Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease. Because a baby’s immune system is still developing at birth, infants are at greater risk of infection and serious illness. Vaccines help the immune system recognize and defend against harmful germs.

The recommended immunization schedule is carefully designed to provide protection when children are most vulnerable and when vaccines are most effective.

If you prefer that your child receive only one injection per visit, we will do our best to accommodate your request. However, additional office visits will be necessary to keep your child up to date and fully protected.