Important Things To Know About Baby Immunizations in BC
As a parent, you want to ensure that your child stays healthy and safe. One way to achieve this is by getting your baby immunized against various diseases. In British Columbia, there is a recommended immunization schedule that includes vaccines against diseases such as polio, measles, and chickenpox, among others. In this blog post, we will discuss important things to know about baby immunizations in BC.
Why Are Baby Immunizations Important?
Baby immunizations are essential in protecting your child from infectious diseases. Immunizations work by exposing your child’s immune system to a weakened or dead version of a disease-causing pathogen. This exposure helps your child’s immune system recognize and fight off the pathogen if it were to encounter it again in the future. By getting your baby immunized, you are not only protecting them from the disease but also providing herd immunity, which means that the disease is less likely to spread in the community.
What Diseases Are Prevented by Baby Immunizations in BC?
In BC, baby immunizations protect against various diseases. Some of the diseases that are prevented through baby immunizations include:
– Polio
– Measles
– Chickenpox
– Rubella
– Pertussis (Whooping cough)
– Mumps
– Hepatitis B
By having your baby immunized, you are playing a crucial role in preventing the spread of these diseases.
When Should Your Baby Be Immunized?
In BC, babies receive their first set of immunizations at two months of age. The schedule of immunizations then continues at four months, six months, 12 months, and 18 months. Booster shots are also given at various intervals throughout childhood to ensure continued protection.
Are Baby Immunizations Safe?
Baby immunizations are generally considered safe. The vaccines have undergone rigorous safety testing and are approved by Health Canada before being administered. Some children may experience minor side effects after immunization, such as a fever or soreness at the injection site. However, these side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Serious adverse reactions are rare.
What if You Decide Not to Immunize Your Baby?
While baby immunizations are not mandatory in BC, it is strongly recommended that children receive them. By not immunizing your child, you are putting them at risk of contracting potentially life-threatening diseases. You are also contributing to the spread of disease in the community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, baby immunizations are an essential part of keeping your child healthy and safe. By following the recommended immunization schedule in BC, you are protecting your child from various diseases and contributing to herd immunity. Immunizations are generally considered safe and have undergone rigorous testing. By choosing not to immunize your child, you are putting them at risk of contracting dangerous diseases. So, ensure that your child receives all the recommended immunizations to help keep them healthy and safe in the long run.
