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Why Infant Immunization Is So Important

Posted on Thursday, August 3, 2017 by UVM Health Network - CVMC

by Emily Davidson, a licensed nursing assistant and clinical scribe in our Pediatric Primary Care office in Barre

Since the world’s first immunization, administered by English physician Edward Jenner in 1796, we have eradicated smallpox worldwide. The deaths smallpox caused before that date are unfathomable.

We live in a world where we do not have to fear contracting this diseases like this and infections that once could take our lives. Immunizations have been one of the most vital contributions to keeping our children healthy so they may grow into healthy adults.

In the first 12 months of a child’s life, the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend routine vaccinations against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, polio, hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib), pneumococcal disease, seasonal influenza and rotavirus, totaling 11 injections and two oral vaccinations. This may seem like a lot to some, but the protection for these infants is critical at a time where their immune systems are still developing.

Some infants cannot receive routine immunizations. Those who are immunocompromised, have allergies, and pediatric oncology patients receiving chemotherapy for cancer treatment, are not always able to receive vaccinations. It is important to vaccinate children so they do not become ill and spread illness to those who cannot be protected.

Children are our most vulnerable age group. They cannot protect themselves and need adults to look out for their best interests. Immunization is one of the greatest forms of protection we can offer.

For more in-depth information on vaccines and preventable diseases, please visit the websites above or contact any of the healthcare professionals at Pediatric Primary Care Berlin at 802-371-5950 or Pediatric Primary Care Barre at 802-479-3302.

Emily Davidson is a licensed nursing assistant and clinical scribe in the Barre Pediatrics office. Pediatric Primary Care Barre was recognized in April 2017 by the Vermont Department of Health's Immunization Program for reaching its Healthy People 2020 Immunization Goals. It is one of seven practices in the state to reach these goals, which help ensure that infants and children in Vermont are protected from vaccine-preventable disease.

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