World Immunization Day: Information on the most important vaccines

World Immunization Day is celebrated on 10^th November every year around the world. The day is observed to make people aware about the importance of getting vaccinations against vaccine preventable diseases. However, would-be parents must know about the most important vaccines.

After a newborn baby has completed one month, he/she is given the first set of vaccines. These vaccinations include:

• All three hepatitis vaccinations
• Diphtheria vaccine
• Tetanus vaccine
• Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine (HIB)
• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)
• Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV)
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine

But there are several other vaccines you might want to consider for children and self.

Chickenpox Vaccination

According to (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention) CDC, the first chickenpox vaccination must be given between 12 and 15 months, and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. Research suggests that the chickenpox vaccine is relatively safe. Serious side effects may include low platelet count, brain injury that causes balance problems or paralysis of one body part.

Rotavirus Vaccine (RV)

Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that can lead to extreme diarrhoea in infants and young children, and is often accompanied by vomiting and fever. If left unattended, it can cause dehydration and even death. Two oral rotavirus vaccines have been approved to prevent the rotavirus infection. CDC recommends doses on the completion of 2, 4, and 6 months. The first dose must be given before 15 weeks of age and the last must be given by 8 months of age.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

Hepatitis A is an acute liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. CDC suggests a hepatitis A vaccination for all children between their 1^st and 2^nd years. It should be given in two shots, six months apart.

Meningococcal Vaccine (MCV)

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial illness that includes meningitis and blood poisoning. CDC suggests that children ages 11 through 18 years get one dose of the meningococcal vaccine.

Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV)

Human papillomavirus vaccine (HPV) is a common virus that is passed through genital contact. The HPV vaccine is recommended for 11 and 12 year old girls. It is also recommended for girls and women ages 13 through 26 years who have not yet been vaccinated. 

Whether you go for additional vaccines for yourself or your child is your choice. Some vaccinations may lead to side effects in some people. However, for many individuals, additional vaccines are helpful and not harmful.