Getting your child set for life

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Children’s vaccinations are scheduled to make sure kids are safe before they run into life-threatening diseases. Even if your child’s risk is low, you never know when an outbreak of measles, pertussis or other diseases will put them at risk. Vaccines give some immunity in case your child is ever exposed to these diseases.

Children have an amazing ability to get into anything and everything. And as a parent, you can’t protect your child from everything out there. But you can protect them against 16 diseases thanks to vaccinations.

Here is how you and your child can be ready for their shots.

• Know what is next in the series, as scheduled by your pediatrician.
• Bring a favorite toy or blanket for younger kids, and for older kids be sure to prepare them for the visit.
• Be honest shots may pinch or sting but won’t hurt for long.
• Remind your child how vaccines help us stay healthy.

If you have questions about the vaccines, please ask. Your family practice provider or pediatrician wants you to be informed. You should also receive vaccine statements to read.

Sometimes, kids have mild reactions to shots, including pain at the injection site, fever or a rash. These are normal, and usually go away soon. Check with your pediatrician if that is not the case.

Tracking your child’s vaccination schedule

Keeping track of your child’s vaccines is important so you can always have an updated copy for any school or child care needs. You will also always know what is next in the schedule for your child.

The Centers for Disease Control outlines a schedule of vaccines for children that is carefully designed to provide protection at just the right time to prevent complications and to ensure your child has protection before being exposed to dangerous diseases. And guess what? Adults may also need vaccine updates. We have collected the schedule for vaccinations and screenings needed for each person in your family into a handy printable booklet, Family Health Guidelines.

Your family practice provider or pediatrician can help you to know when your child will need their next set of immunizations. If your child doesn’t have a primary care provider, call us 503-261-6929. We will help you find a family practice doctor or nurse practitioner who fits your needs, location and style.