Immunizations

In the past, immunity to a disease was only possible if the patient actually contracted it and survived it.  The odds were not great of surviving the disease or surviving but without adverse side effects.  The discovery of vaccines has made it much easier to develop immunity with the added benefit of only a small amount of discomfort of an injection.  

Polio and smallpox have almost entirely been eradicated in the last century.  Dozens of diseases have declined with the development of immunizations and their widespread availability.  

Newborn babies are born with no immunity.  Fortunately, the human body is designed to protect them in a few months following their birth.  Antibodies are passed to the baby while in the womb through the placenta.  After birth, breastmilk supplies more antibodies.  Unfortunately, neither of these will protect the baby long term.  Vaccinations begin at an early age to start building their immunity as they grow.  

Vaccines for children protect against measles, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).  

Immunity is, by definition, protection from disease.  Vaccines work by causing the body’s immune system to fight against a weakened or killed germ that causes a particular disease.  If that type of germ is introduced back into the body later in life in the form of actual exposure to the full-strength disease, the body will recognize it and know how to destroy it.  

Soreness at the injection site and a mild reaction are typically the only side effects of getting immunizations.  Serious reactions are very rare.  Contracting a serious disease is much more dangerous than a slight reaction to a vaccine.  

Text 817-663-8162 or call 817-355-8000 to find out if you need any vaccinations.