ALTHOUGH THE SIGNIFICANCE of vaccinating children is widely recognized, it is essential to understand the importance of adhering to an immunization schedule. These schedules are determined and evaluated by leading experts each year, taking the most recent scientific data into consideration. They are then approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Due to the scientific data and authorization that sustains the schedule, it is vital for your child to adhere to the recommended timing for vaccinations.
Children are more susceptible to illness and, therefore, should be safeguarded from the earliest possible age. The immunization schedule is structured in such a way to ensure that your child is always protected by strategically timing vaccinations to maximize effectiveness and work around their immune system. This ensures the best response during the different stages of childhood. Children may require an entire series of shots in order to be fully protected, and the length of time between the doses allows for the child to create a protective response.
The only exception for deterring from the immunization schedule is if there are medical complications, such as your child being allergic to a particular ingredient in the vaccine. In this case, an alternative schedule should be recommended by a pediatrician.
Visit Pediatric Partners online or call the clinic at (863) 940-0918 for more information about the immunization schedule or to book an appointment.
This column is sponsored by Pediatric Partners.
CREDIT
column by DR. DIANE MAGEAU
BIO: Dr. Diane Mageau is a provider at Pediatric Partners in Winter Haven, Fla.
Posted April 1, 2016