Complete Guide to Protecting Your Child from Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
Childhood immunizations are one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious diseases. Following the recommended schedule ensures your child develops immunity when they're most vulnerable. This guide provides comprehensive information about vaccine timing, importance, and safety based on CDC recommendations.
Important: Always consult with your pediatrician about your child's specific vaccination needs. This information is based on general CDC guidelines but individual circumstances may vary.
Diseases prevented by childhood vaccines
Reduction in vaccine-preventable diseases since 1980
Child deaths prevented annually by vaccines
Polio reduction worldwide through vaccination
Vaccines undergo years of testing before approval and continuous monitoring after
Serious side effects are extremely rare - much rarer than the diseases they prevent
Mild fever, soreness, or fussiness are normal signs the immune system is working
Multiple large studies have found no connection between vaccines and autism
Check which vaccines your child needs based on their age:
Young children are most vulnerable to serious complications from vaccine-preventable diseases. Their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. The vaccine schedule is designed to protect children when they're at highest risk, starting immunity development before they're likely to be exposed to these diseases in the community.
Yes, extensive research shows that giving several vaccines at the same time is safe and effective. A child's immune system is capable of handling many more antigens (the parts of vaccines that create immunity) than they receive through vaccinations. Combination vaccines (like MMR) actually reduce the number of shots and office visits. Spreading out vaccines leaves children vulnerable to diseases for longer periods.
If your child misses a shot, you don't need to start over. The "catch-up" schedule allows your pediatrician to get your child back on track without repeating doses. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to create a plan to complete the vaccination series. Delaying vaccines increases the time your child is vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Yes, but these are rare. Valid medical exemptions include severe allergic reactions to previous vaccine doses or specific vaccine components, and certain conditions that weaken the immune system (like chemotherapy or certain genetic disorders). Mild illnesses like colds or low-grade fevers are NOT reasons to delay vaccination. Always discuss concerns with your pediatrician.
Stay on track with your child's immunization schedule. Download our complete vaccine tracker with reminder alerts, side effect guidance, and questions to ask your pediatrician.
Back to resources