Immunizations - general overview

MERCURY

A small amount of mercury (called thimerosal) is a common preservative in multi-dose vaccines. Despite concerns, thimerosal-containing vaccines have NOT been shown to cause autism or ADHD. Nevertheless, if you have concerns about mercury, all of the routine vaccines are also available without added thimerosal.

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IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE

The recommended immunization schedule is updated at least every 12 months by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics. Consult your primary care provider about specific immunizations for you or your child. The current recommendations are available at www.cdc.gov/nip. At every doctor visit, ask about the next recommended immunizations.

TIPS FOR PARENTS

Immunizations must be given as an injection (shot). The following tips can help make the experience easier for your child:

Tell older children that the shot is needed to keep them safe and healthy. Knowing what to expect ahead of time may reassure the child.
Explain to the child that it is OK to cry, but suggest that the child try to be brave. Explain that you do not like injections either, but you try to be brave, too. Praise the child after the injection is over, whether or not he or she cries.
Distract the child at the moment of the injection. For example, point out a picture on the wall, have them count or say their "ABCs", or tell them something funny.
Try to be calm. The child will notice if you cringe before the shot!
Plan something fun to do afterward. A trip to the park, eating out, or other entertainment after the shot can make the next one less scary.

IMMUNIZATIONS FOR ADULTS

Immunizations are not only for children. Each year the CDC posts recommended adult immunizations on their website. Go there to learn about tetanus booster shots, the flu shot, hepatitis A and B vaccines, the pneumococcal vaccine, MMR, and immunizations for chickenpox and meningitis.

TRAVELERS

The CDC website (www.cdc.gov) gives travelers detailed information on immunizations and other precautions. Many immunizations should be obtained at least a month before travel.

Remember to take your immunization records with you when you travel internationally. Some countries require this documentation.

See also:

Immunization - diptheria

Immunization - pertussis

Immunization - polio

Immunization - tetanus

References:

Zimmerman RK. The 2005 Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule, United States, October 2004-September 2005. Am Fam Physician. 2004; 70(12); 2372-2377.

Combination vaccines for childhood immunization: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Pediatrics. 1999 May;103(5 Pt 1):1064-77.