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Immunizing your child is one of the most loving things you can do for them. Immunization prevents dangerous diseases including polio, measles, rubella, diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, hepatitis B and more.
Immunization Comfort Tips
Routine Immunizations
Things to note after an Immunization
Please make sure your child's immunizations are up-to-date. Each time you visit or call your pediatrician, ask when the next shots are due and make an appointment. Carefully read over any information you receive about the shots that your child is receiving and ask any questions you might have.
For Infants
- Provide a familiar comforting object, such as a blanket, stuffed animal or soft rattle.
- Rock or hold your infant.
- Talk to him or her in a soothing voice.
- Have a pacifier ready.
For Toddlers and older
- Prepare your child for what will happen and why.
- Playact the immunization process. Let your child pretend to be the doctor/nurse.
- Bring along a favorite comforting object.
- Help your child relax by showing how to take deep breaths.
- Distract your child by talking, singing, or telling a story.
- Ask your child to count or name different object around the room.
- Remind your child how well he or she is behaving.
Allow your child of any age to cry. It is their way of coping.
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| Vaccine | Recommended ages |
| Hepatitis B | birth 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months |
| Rotavirus | 2 months, 4 months, 6 months |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis | 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, 4-6 years
Again at 11-12 years |
| Inactivated Polio | 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months, 4-6 years |
| H. influenzae type B | 2 months, 4months, 6 months, 12-15 months |
| Pneumococcal/PCV | 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 12-15 months |
| Influenza | every year starting at 6 months |
| Measles, Mumps, Rubella | 12-15 months, 4-6 years |
| Chickenpox | 12-15 months, 4-6 years |
| Hepatits A | 12-23 months |
| Meningococcal/MCV | 11-12 years |
| HPV | 11-12 years |
The above schedule is a guidelinethere may be specific modifications for your child's unique situation. If your child misses a recommended dose of a vaccine, ask your pediatrician about catch-up doses.
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Be sore where the shot was given
Get cranky
Run a slight fever
The above reactions are normal, although not all children may experience them. They are usually no cause for worry.
However, call your pediatrician immediately if your child has any of the following reactions from an immunization:
- A fever of 103 or more
- A crying fit that lasts for more than 3 hours
- Seizures
- Limpness
- Inability to be awakened
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Adapted from AAP website
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