Dr. Joseph Miner, Exeuctive Director with Utah County Health Department, sheds some light on what you need to know about immunizations.
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1. Childhood immunization is one of the top ten public health accomplishments of the century
a. Vaccines prevent diseases that used to be the leading causes of death
b. These medications go through the most stringent of testing before they are allowed to be used
c. Adverse Reaction rate – benefits far exceed the risk
d. Hib recall:
“Since sterility of the vaccine cannot be assured, if a child was vaccinated with a vial of PedvaxHIB® or COMVAX® that contained B. cereus or other microorganisms, there may be a risk of developing localized or disseminated infections.” Basically, parents need to watch for reactions just as they would with any vaccination. If they see a rash or child begins to run a fever, they should contact their child’s physician.
e. Link to autism
2. Childhood vaccinations protect children from life threatening or debilitating diseases
Examples:
| Disease | Potential Danger |
| Pertussis or Whooping Cough |
severe and protracted cough, vomiting, or death |
| Polio | cause weakness, paralysis, serious breathing problems or death |
| Diphtheria | breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, or death |
Measles, mumps, rubella |
congenital defects (heart and neurological), infertility, brain infection, or death |
| Influenza | severe weakness, prolonged illness or death |
3. We immunize as much for other children as our own
a. Proven the most effective method to control disease
b. Example: Leading causes of death in children is no longer from disease
Eradication of such diseases as polio and small pox
4. Complete protection requires up-to-date vaccinations, good records, and follow-up
a. Getting behind in childhood vaccinations weakens protection
b. This also includes keeping good records, and reviewing regularly with pediatrician
c. Schedule available on www.UtahCountyHealth.org, click on Immunizations
5. Don’t forget the importance of a Seasonal Influenza Vaccination for the whole family
It isn’t too late to get a flu shot!
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Remember if you would like to learn more about immunizations and the schedule for your children, go to www.UtahCountyHealth.org and check out the chart listed on the website. Or get more information, contact your county health department nearest you or call your doctor to determine what your child needs.
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