Regular checkups at your pediatrician's office or local health clinic are an
important way to keep children healthy.
By making sure that your child gets immunized on time, you can provide the
best available defense against many dangerous childhood diseases. Immunizations
protect children against:
- hepatitis B
- polio
- measles
- mumps
- rubella (German measles)
- pertussis (whooping cough)
- diphtheria
- tetanus (lockjaw)
- Haemophilus influenzae
- type B
- chickenpox
All of these immunizations need to be given before children are 2 years old
in order for them to be protected during their most vulnerable period. Are your
child's immunizations up-to-date?
Remember to keep track of your child's immunizations -- it's the only way you
can be sure your child is up-to-date. Also, check with your pediatrician or
health clinic at each visit to find out if your child needs any booster shots or
if any new vaccines have been recommended since this schedule was prepared.
If you don't have a pediatrician, call your local health department. Public
health clinics usually have supplies of vaccine and may give shots free.
© Copyright 2000 American Academy of
Pediatrics
