Why Immunizations Are Important

Has your child received all of their immunizations? Offered by your child's Grayslake, IL, pediatricians, immunizations not only protect your son or daughter from developing serious childhood diseases, but they also help prevent the spread of disease in the larger community. Read on to learn more!

Are immunizations really necessary?

The Anti-Vaxx movement has been in the news lately as the country has been increasingly experiencing outbreaks of measles, mumps, and whooping cough. Although these diseases had been largely eradicated in the past, they're returning due to the reluctance of some parents to vaccinate their children.

These parents argue that the diseases are relatively minor and won't result in any lasting harm. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Your child will be miserable and uncomfortable if they contract measles, chicken pox, whooping cough, or another childhood disease, even if the case is mild. At worst, they will face serious complications, like pneumonia, breathing difficulties, serious skin or blood infections, or encephalitis (swelling of the brain.) Some unlucky children will even die.

Some parents have avoided immunizing their children in the past due to concerns about a possible increase in autism in immunized children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, however, numerous research studies have found no link between immunizations and autism.

Immunizations protect everyone, not just your children. Some children and adults can't receive immunizations due to certain medical conditions, while very young children may not have received all of their shots yet. Vaccinating your child prevents the spread of disease and protects unvaccinated people.

Which immunizations should my child receive?

During a visit to our Grayslake office, your pediatrician will discuss with you the recommended immunization schedule for your child. Common immunizations include those that protect your son or daughter from:

• Polio
• Chickenpox
• Hepatitis A and B
• Human Papillomavirus
• Influenza
• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis
• Rotavirus
• Diptheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis
• Haemophilus Influenzae Type B

Safeguard your child's health with immunizations. Call your Grayslake, IL, pediatricians at (847) 548-7337 to make an appointment for your son or daughter!