Essential Vaccines Every Parent Must Know About

Dr.Gaurav Jain, 4 mins read

There is one common thing that every parent wants, that is to see their children healthy, safe, and smiling. From the moment a baby is born, parents do everything to protect them from harm. But still, there are some invisible dangers that parents cannot stop, they are harmful diseases. This is where vaccines become a parent’s strongest shield.

Vaccines are one of the greatest gifts of human research and modern medicine. These have been designed to prepare a child’s immune system to fight deadly illnesses even before the child comes in contact with them. Diseases like polio that once created fear in every household are now nearly eradicated with the vaccines. But many serious illnesses still exist, and vaccination is the best way to prevent them.

Here are some essential vaccines every parent must know about:

1. BCG Vaccine

This is usually the first vaccine a child receives at the time of birth. This vaccine protects against tuberculosis (TB), a dangerous infection that can damage the lungs and other parts of the body.

2. Polio Vaccine

Earlier, polio was  one of the major causes of paralysis in children. The oral polio drops and injectable polio vaccine protect children from this lifelong disability. Parents should ensure that children never miss their doses, mainly during national polio campaigns.

3. Hepatitis B Vaccine

This is given soon after birth and protects against Hepatitis B, a viral infection that can cause liver damage later in life.

4. DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)

This is a combination vaccine that guards against three serious diseases, namely

1. Diphtheria, which leads to blockage of the airway.
2. Tetanus, which causes painful muscle stiffness.
3. Pertussis (whooping cough), which makes it hard for babies to breathe.

5. Hib Vaccine (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)

This vaccine prevents severe infections like pneumonia and meningitis, which can be life-threatening for small children.

6. MMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

These three diseases may seem like simple childhood problems but they can lead to serious complications like brain swelling, infertility, and birth defects if pregnant women get infected. The vaccine is very important and safe.

7. Rotavirus Vaccine

Rotavirus is one of the main causes of severe diarrhea in infants. This vaccine helps prevent dehydration and hospital admissions.

8. Pneumococcal Vaccine

It protects against pneumonia, ear infections, and meningitis caused by pneumococcal bacteria. Children under two years of age are especially vulnerable, so this vaccine can save lives.

9. Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

Chickenpox may seem common, but it can cause severe skin infections, pneumonia, or brain problems. Vaccination makes the illness much milder or prevents it altogether.

10. HPV Vaccine (for adolescents)

The HPV vaccine is very important as it protects against the human papillomavirus, which can later cause cervical cancer in women and other cancers in men.

Why Vaccination is Important?

Vaccines are not just about protecting your child, they also protect the community. When most children are vaccinated, it creates herd immunity, which prevents diseases from spreading to others, including newborns and people with weak immune systems.

As parents, we may sometimes feel worried about giving multiple injections to our little ones. But remember, vaccines are far safer than the diseases they prevent. Side effects are usually mild, like slight fever or swelling, and they go away quickly. 

Conclusion

Parenting is full of choices, but some choices are non-negotiable. Vaccination is one of them. Keeping up with your child’s vaccination schedule is one of the most powerful ways to protect their future. So, whenever your doctor reminds you about a vaccine, think of it as a shield of love. A small prick today for a lifetime of safety for you and your loved ones.