Why does my child need vaccinations?
Vaccinations provide your child with protection from disease and are necessary starting soon after they are born until they reach young adulthood. The vaccines help your child build immunity against potentially deadly diseases and reduce the risk of infection throughout their lifetime.
In addition to being a preventive health service, vaccinations are required to remain in compliance with Virginia schools, daycares, and other organizations.
What vaccinations are available?
The team at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC can administer all necessary vaccines based on your child’s age and medical history. Available vaccinations at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC include:
- Polio vaccine
- Hepatitis B vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine, or PCV
- Varicella, or chickenpox, vaccine
- Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, or DTaP
- Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, or MMR
- Haemophilus influenza Type b vaccine, or Hib
The team at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC also offers vaccination protection for young adults against the human papillomavirus (HPV) to prevent cervical cancer.
To protect your child from health complications of the seasonal flu virus, Penguin Pediatrics PLLC offers the influenza vaccine.
2022 CDC Recommended Immunizations By Age
Recommended Immunizations for Children from Birth Through 6 Years Old Click Here
Recommended Immunizations for Children 7–18 Years Old Click Here
Recommended Immunizations Combined Schedule for Child and Adolescent ages 18 years or younger Click Here
Vaccines for Your Children By Age Click Here
How do vaccines work?
Vaccinations help your children develop an immunity to a specific disease before they can get sick.
The vaccinations are made up of particles of weakened or inactive germs responsible for disease and cause your immune system to create antibodies against these germs. These antibodies remain in your system and protect your health in the event you’re exposed to the disease later in life.
Some vaccinations, including the Hib vaccine, require more than one dose to ensure the body is sufficiently protected from specific virus or disease. The team at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC determines your child’s vaccination schedule based on their age and overall health.
Do vaccines cause side effects?
Like any medication, vaccinations can cause your child to experience mild side effects. However, the health complications of the preventable diseases are often much worse and may even be deadly for some children.
In some cases, children may not be able to tolerate certain vaccinations due to allergies or other medical reasons. The team at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC can provide guidance on how to protect your child from illness if they aren’t able to receive a vaccination.
To learn more about the benefits of vaccinations, schedule an appointment at Penguin Pediatrics PLLC by calling the office or using the online booking feature.
