Who wants to get a shot? I bet no one ever wants to shots. No matter
how fine the needle is, it still stings. This can be especially uncomfortable for young children; the pain can be equally painful for their parents and guardian who are just watching them from afar. However, getting a child fully immunized is essential for their health. It is among the most important decisions that a parent must make to ensure the welfare and safety of his or her kids.
Thanks to modern medicine, there are now numerous vaccinations that can help risk serious infections and diseases. Immunizations are not only essential in keeping children healthier and safer; they also prevent the spread of communicable diseases. It has significantly decreased mortality rates in young children and has improved public health.
Although immunizations, particularly in children, are now mandatory, still there is a good number of adults and children who are not yet fully immunized. Healthcare providers urge all parents and guardians to work closely with their doctors, especially physicians, to ensure that everyone in the household has been fully vaccinated. It is advised that parents follow the vaccination schedule as recommended by their primary healthcare provider.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children under 2 years can be protected against 14 potentially serious illnesses by having an up-to-date immunization. Hepatitis B vaccination is among the first shots a child will get. The hepatitis B virus is a common infection that can lead to liver damage over time. It is estimated that there are 3,000 to 5,000 people die in the US due to liver disease arising from hepatitis B. This virus can be transmitted through blood and body fluids and can spread easily.
It is recommended that children be vaccinated for whooping cough, measles, chickenpox, polio, tetanus, and flu as soon as he reaches 2 years old. Without proper immunization, children can easily get infected with communicable diseases. But it is not only children who require immunization, adults also need to be vaccinated. Annual flu shots are recommended for adults, especially older adults. The risk of getting influenza is significantly reduced by being properly immunized.
People are encouraged to keep their immunization up-to-date to
prevent many life-threatening diseases. Vaccination is also essential in ensuring public health. If all people are well immunized, there is a reduced risk of developing and transmitting diseases. Include in your medical information record your immunization status. It can help healthcare providers decide the appropriate care for you.