Immunization: Placing Importance
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The most effective tool to protect human bodies against dreadful diseases is through Immunization. Getting vaccinated at an early age helps us to build a stronger Immune System. This works as a shield to help us combat the infections and illnesses in future in an effective way. |
It is true, babies possess some innate immunity. When inside the womb, mothers’ infection preventing antibodies are passed on to them through the Umbilical Cord. This gets further strengthened, when the process of breastfeeding commences. Breastmilk contains immunoglobulin, lysozymes and bifidus factor which helps fight infections till about six to eight months of age. But when the baby is weaned of the breastmilk, this developed immunity again begins to diminish gradually. You see, that your baby is growing and developing better each day. She has taken up to eating newer foods. With all these changes taking place, even her Immune System needs to be further developed. This is why; it becomes essential to have your baby get immunized to offer extra protection against various illnesses.
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In sync with the baby’s healthcare personnel, make sure that she receives timely necessary immunizations before her second birthday. You may wonder what if due to some reasons, her first shot of vaccination got delayed? Well, you needn’t worry about that. Even if she was brought in late for her first session, she should yet receive all the desired vaccinations. No attempt on your part in any way should exempt your baby from receiving the vaccine shots.
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As a cautious parent, you would also want to know about the efficacy of these vaccines delivered? Our Indian Immunization programme is one of the largest in the world in terms of the quantities of vaccines used, number of beneficiaries and sessions organized etc. It’s safe and effective delivery system aims to reduce mortality and morbidity in India due vaccine preventable diseases, especially for children. The diseases that are covered under the Immunization programme are Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Polio, Measles and Tetanus.
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National Immunization Schedule
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Reference:-www.india.gov.in
Note:- The different colours only denote that the baby need to be administered the respective vaccine during that period.The Indian Academy of paediatrics also recommends an additional vaccination i.e. MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) to the above schedule. The first dose of vaccination can be given at around 15 to18 months of age. The second dose can be administered at anytime, eight weeks after the first shot.
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Vaccinations and Their Side Effects
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After a dose of particular vaccination, certain changes may be observed in the baby but they are considered to be normal.
BCG vaccine:- After your baby has received BCG vaccine on the upper right arm, it is likely that a small pimple may appear within one to three weeks that can last for about six to seven weeks. A scar usually remains after the skin has healed up. However in some cases, no scar would be observed but it does not mean that your baby needs to be re-vaccinated. In rare cases, an abscess i.e. painful swelling filled with pus can appear on the injection site. Even the lymph glands under the armpit and neck can swell. In such cases, summon your baby’s doctor immediately.
DPT Injection:- After receiving DPT injection, an infant may develop mild fever and experience pain at the injection site. The baby’s doctor can suggest an appropriate medicine to relieve her from pain and fever.
Measles vaccine:- Rashes can appear soon after the baby is given a Measles shot. It is uncommon to see a baby develop any allergic reaction after Immunization.
But if you find your baby having very high fever or has suddenly become unconscious, then time now to refer her for immediate medical help.
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Baby’s health and Immunization
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Illnesses like diarrhoea or cold and cough should not be considered as major constraints in the process of vaccination. You should however keep the health care provider well informed about the baby’s health status.
Let him know of the following:-
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- If she has been suffering from any major illnesses or fever.
- She might have already developed an adverse reaction to the previous vaccine. This again, should not be ignored.
- If your baby has had any organ transplant or is suffering from any malignant disease then she might be on immunosuppressants. Knowledge of all the medications being given to the baby should be provided to the healthcare provide
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