There is so much information out there about vaccines that it can simply seem overwhelming. But just as with any question regarding your child's health the best place to turn to for answers is your child's doctor. Learn more about the benefits of child immunizations by reaching out to your Birmingham, AL, pediatricians at Acton Road Pediatrics.
Immune System
Your child's immune system protects them against pathogens and the infections they can cause. It can keep them out entirely or track them down and get rid of them, it's typically a very efficient system.
But there are times when certain pathogens, especially those the body can't recognize, can overwhelm the immune system and lead to very serious illness.
Immunizations, in the simplest terms, teach the immune system how to recognize and get rid of a specific pathogen if your child ever becomes exposed to it.
Immunizations Benefits
The way vaccines, or immunizations, work is by introducing a harmless version of the disease they protect against. This allows the immune system to build antibodies to successfully fight off the disease. Vaccines not only keep your child safe but thanks to vaccines many serious diseases that were once so prevalent have been controlled.
Vaccines are not given all at once but are spread throughout your child's life so they can have the best effect, sometimes given multiple times. This is what's known as the immunization schedule, a plan with recommendations for which vaccines should be given and when.
Child Immunizations in Birmingham, AL
The recommended immunization schedule is typically found on the CDC website, but the information can be overwhelming to parse through on your own, so it's important to visit your child's pediatrician to learn more.
Their doctor can make sure that your child is on track with their vaccines during their regular consultations.
Get up to date on your child's immunizations, and schedule a visit in Birmingham, AL, with Acton Road Pediatrics by dialing (205) 978-8245.