1. “Immunizations” What Parents Should Know

2. The Immune System DEFINITION: Body’s method of protecting itself from foreign substances that invade the body. Vaccines work with our immune system to protect us against diseases.

3. What is a vaccine? DEFINITION: Helps your body create antibodies, or cells that fight off antigens. ---Antigens: either bacteria or virus that causes the disease Vaccines can be made from “killed” antigens or from live but weakened versions of the antigen

4. Immunity In most cases, these antibodies remain active and protective against the disease for a person’s lifetime. In some cases, a vaccine requires booster shots or doses given at regular intervals.

5. Types of Children Vaccines Children receive several vaccinations during the first 10 years of their lives and most of them before the age of one. These are the 7 most common children vaccines: Polio MMR (Measles, mumps, rubella) DTP (Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) Hepatitis B Chicken Pox Tetanus-Diphtheria HIB (Haemophilus Influenza B)

6. How are vaccines given? Orally Shots Nasal Mist

7. Any side effects? Some children have reactions to vaccines, so discuss this with your pediatrician. Common side effects: ---Redness ---Soreness ---Mild Fever ---Swelling ---Irritation or cranky THE RISKS OF NOT VACCINATING YOUR CHILD IS FAR GREATER!

8. Why Immunize? Immunizing children on schedule is the best protection against dangerous childhood diseases. It helps keep EVERYONE healthy.

9. Resources for help: Pediatrication Office Health Department Immunization Hotline: 1-800-232-2522 Keep an up-to-date shot record for each child: used to register for kindergarten, military, etc.

10. Don’t feel bad…..you did a GREAT parent responsibility!