While vaccine side effects have received a lot of attention lately, the risk of your child possibly suffering these symptoms is far outweighed by the benefits of the vaccines. If your child is not vaccinated, she is at risk of contracting diseases that can seriously impair her health. During your child's first two years, she should receive immunizations to protect her from the ten most common infectious and communicable diseases:
diphtheria
whooping cough
tetanus
polio
haemophilus influenza
measle
mumps
rubella
hepatitis B
chicken pox
She also should be vaccinated against the pneumococcal bacteria that can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious infections in a child’s brain. Your child's pediatrician can explain the major concerns about each of these diseases, and why the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages all parents to provide the maximum protection available against them.
The most common side effects of vaccines you can expect include redness and tenderness at the injection site, a low-grade fever, some irritability, and perhaps, a rash. If any reaction occurs that concerns you, definitely speak with your child's doctor.
