Immunizations - Introduction

Studies using these systems are ongoing and none to date have confirmed reports of any significant association between most vaccines and severe side effects that would outweigh the benefits of these important and life-saving agents. For example, a 2001 analysis that examined VSD data confirmed the overall safety of the childhood MMR and DTP vaccines.

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Granted, no vaccine is 100% safe. Allergic and serious reactions are possible. In two cases, the early polio vaccine and the rotavirus vaccine, problems did occur, some serious. It is important to note, however, that even in these cases, the vaccines were withdrawn and the severe events still were far fewer than the lives saved.

The focus on vaccination side effects is ironic due to the fact that reports of such adverse effects outnumber the number of actual infections. Because vaccinations have been in existence for so long, today''s parents have no direct knowledge of the consequences of these dreaded infections, which killed or severely sickened millions of children in the past.

It should be noted that studies are reporting that the risk for infection increases significantly in children who are not vaccinated. There is also a rise in infections among immunized children, suggesting resistance to the vaccines.

Tips for Helping Small Children Before, During, and After a Shot

Very small infants often accept the first injection easily, since they are not expecting it. It gets more difficult, however, with each additionalshot. Simply providing love and warmth can help children of all ages tolerate immunizations.

Additional tips:

Do not lieand tell an older child that a shot will be painless. Some healthcare providers suggest telling them that it stings a little and to count to five while it is being administered.
Ask the doctor if it''s OK togive the child a dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol) before or after a shot. Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or other nonaspirin pain relievers may be acceptable alternatives. (Children should never take aspirin after vaccinations.)
Ask the doctor aboutEMLA cream, a topical anesthetic containing lidocaine and prilocaine. This product can be applied about an hour before the injection. (Note:EMLA may interact with acetaminophen and certain vaccinations, so be sure to check with the doctor first.)
A cooling spray may work as well as EMLA and have fewer side effects.
Longer needles, rather than shorter ones, may help reduce pain. A2001 British study reported that using longer needles decreased redness at the injection site by about two-thirds. Parents may want to ask theirdoctor about this study.
Have your child take a deep breath right before the shot and blow out very hard while it is being given. One study reported very good results with this breathing technique.
Give a sweet fluid before the shot and a little reward, such as a lollipop, immediately after the shot. Sugar actually hasmild pain relieving properties for infants.