Immunizations Specialist

What are immunizations?

Immunizations (vaccines) are essential for preventive health care and protect children from potentially serious, contagious diseases. 

The immunizations available for children introduce their bodies to dead or weakened forms of contagious diseases. This helps their body make antibodies in its own defense to protect them from serious illness. 

If your child ever comes into contact with the disease, they may not get as sick as they might without the immunization.

Immunizations also help slow the spread of contagious diseases to protect children who can’t receive vaccines due to underlying health issues. 

What immunizations does my child need?

Children receive several immunizations shortly after birth because their immune system is still developing. They also receive additional immunizations as they grow into adulthood to protect them from diseases like:

• Polio
• Mumps
• Measles
• Tetanus
• Hepatitis
• Chickenpox 
• Meningitis
• Whooping cough (pertussis)
• Meningococcal pneumonia
• COVID-19

The team at Cardinal Pediatrics also offers immunizations against human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in adolescents and the seasonal flu.

When does my child need immunizations?

The team at Cardinal Pediatrics follows the immunization guidelines set by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Your child needs different vaccines at different ages, starting soon after birth. Some vaccines require a series of injections spread out over time to ensure your child is fully protected. The team can determine which immunizations your child needs based on their medical history and existing health. 

Children also need immunizations before starting school or participating in organized sports or other activities. 

Suppose you plan to travel outside the United States. In that case, your child may need additional vaccines to protect them from diseases like malaria and yellow fever that are more common in other countries. 

Are immunizations safe?

Immunizations to protect against contagious diseases are thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness before they’re available to the public. 

If you have questions or concerns about vaccine safety, be sure to speak with the Cardinal Pediatrics team before refusing a vaccine. We can provide resources that help you make the most informed decision about your child’s health. 

When your child has allergies or other underlying health issues that prevent them from receiving certain vaccines, the team can create strategies to lower your child’s risk of infection. 

To schedule an immunization consultation, call the Cardinal Pediatrics office nearest you today, or book an appointment online.

If you suffer from sneezing, itchy nose, skin rash, watery eyes, and more, we offer treatment for allergies and asthma. Call us to book your appointment today. 

We offer pediatric care, physical exams, and newborn care located in Lowell, MA and Chelmsford, MA. Call us to book your appointment today.