Hey there! I’m Dr Meherdad, your Child specialist in Dhaka.
With over a decade of experience in pediatrics and a passion for writing, I aim to demystify the world of pediatric vaccinations. My journey, enriched by my medical training and certification from DMC, UK, and hands-on experience, has instilled in me the importance of informed healthcare decisions, especially when it comes to our children.
The Vital Role of Vaccinations in Children’s Health
Vaccinations are the cornerstone of pediatric healthcare. They play a pivotal role in shielding children from various diseases, many of which were once common and life-threatening. The advent of vaccines has made diseases like polio and diphtheria rare in today’s world. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of vaccinations in controlling infectious diseases.
Decoding Key Vaccines and Their Impact
The IPV Vaccine: Polio’s Nemesis
The IPV (inactivated poliovirus) vaccine is a hero in the pediatric vaccination schedule. Administered in four doses from 2 months to 6 years, this vaccine has been instrumental in almost eradicating polio. Polio, known for causing paralysis and even death, is now a rarity, thanks to the IPV vaccine.
The MMR Vaccine: A Triple Shield
The MMR vaccine, protecting against measles, mumps, and rubella, is given in two doses, typically at 1 year and again between 4-6 years. Measles, with its complications of brain swelling and pneumonia, mumps, known for painful swellings and meningitis, and rubella, a mild disease but dangerous in pregnancy, are all kept at bay by this vaccine.
The Hib Vaccine: Guard Against Bacterial Threats
Haemophilus influenza type b was once a leading cause of serious childhood illnesses, including meningitis. The Hib vaccine, given between 2 and 15 months, has dramatically reduced these infections.
Varicella Vaccine: Chickenpox’s Adversary
The varicella vaccine, administered after 12 months and again at 4-6 years, has been effective in preventing chickenpox, a common childhood disease that can lead to severe complications.
The HBV Vaccine: A Shield Against Hepatitis B
Given as a series starting soon after birth, the HBV vaccine is crucial in preventing hepatitis B, a liver infection that can lead to chronic disease and even liver cancer.
Pneumococcal and Meningococcal Vaccines: Protectors of the Brain and Lungs
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) protect against severe lung and brain infections. PCV is given at 2, 4, 6, and 12 months, while MCV4 is recommended at 11-12 years.
The HPV Vaccine: A Cancer Preventive Measure
The HPV vaccine, recommended around 11-12 years, is a major step in preventing cervical and other cancers caused by the human papillomavirus.
COVID-19 Vaccine: A Contemporary Necessity
The emergence of COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of vaccinations in controlling pandemics. The COVID-19 vaccines for children, including Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, are pivotal in reducing severe illness and transmission.
The Importance of Educating Parents and Caregivers
In my practice, I emphasize the importance of informing parents and caregivers about the benefits and risks associated with each vaccine. Understanding the science behind vaccinations and the diseases they prevent is crucial in making informed decisions about a child’s health.
Pre-Vaccination Considerations and Post-Vaccination Care
Before vaccination, it is important to discuss any medical conditions, allergies, or previous adverse reactions to vaccines with your healthcare provider. After vaccination, monitoring for any adverse reactions and following up with healthcare professionals is key to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines.
Conclusion
As a pediatrician, I believe that vaccines are one of the greatest achievements in public health. They have not only saved millions of lives but also improved the quality of life for countless children around the world. I encourage parents and caregivers to discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers and make informed decisions regarding vaccinations.
Remember, vaccinating your child is not just a personal choice; it’s a societal responsibility. By vaccinating our children, we protect not only them but also the broader community, especially those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Let’s continue to work together to create a healthier, safer world for our children.