You’re a parent, and like so many others, you’re asking yourself this question: ‘Should I have my child vaccinated?’ With conflicting information circulating everywhere, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Get ready to sort out the facts from the myths, understand the issues and make informed decisions for your child’s health and well-being!
How vaccination works
Let’s start with the basics. The aim of vaccination is to stimulate a person’s immune system in order to protect them against a specific disease. There are several types of vaccine: those containing weakened pathogens and those containing messenger RNA, for example. The principle is always the same: when the vaccine is administered, the immune system reacts by producing specific antibodies without suffering the effects of the disease. The antibodies remain in the vaccinated person’s body. More specifically, if your child is exposed to the disease, his or her immune system is ready to fight it effectively. Contrary to popular belief, messenger RNA vaccines do not alter the genetic code.
Are the vaccines offered to my children safe?
The vaccines recommended for children are carefully evaluated to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Before they are approved, they undergo years of research and rigorous clinical trials. Once on the market, their safety is closely monitored by the health authorities. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the potential risks, protecting children against serious and sometimes fatal diseases. The most common side effects are mild and temporary. Following the recommended vaccination schedule is crucial to protecting the health of children and the community as a whole.
If you have any concerns about the safety of vaccines, we invite you to talk to a paediatrician or healthcare professional who specialises in vaccinating children! If you don’t already have a paediatrician, here are 5 criteria to consider!
Will the vaccine protect my child from the disease?
In terms of protection, it is not possible to protect against all forms of the disease. Sometimes your child may still contract the disease, but if so, the chances are that it will be a less serious form than if he or she had not been vaccinated. What’s more, most of the vaccines offered to children have a success rate of over 90%!
Should I vaccinate my child?
Vaccination is the best way of protecting your child and others around him or her. Vaccination has been one of the pillars of public health for decades, making a significant contribution to reducing many infectious diseases and preventing millions of deaths every year.
Are there alternatives to vaccines?
Apart from vaccines, there are no safe and effective alternatives for stimulating the formation of specific antibodies. While a healthy diet is important for strengthening the body’s general defence mechanisms, it cannot prevent infection or disease. Similarly, breastfeeding offers some protection against certain infections, but this protection is partial and temporary. Nor can herbal remedies, homeopathy and vitamins replace vaccines in terms of disease prevention. Ultimately, vaccines remain the most effective method of preventing disease.
