Childhood Vaccines: Why Staying on Schedule Matters
Critical Questions:
Why is it important to follow the childhood vaccine schedule?
The recommended schedule is designed to provide protection at the ages when children need it. It also specifies the appropriate timing and spacing between doses.
What if my child missed a vaccine?
Talk with your child's healthcare provider. A catch-up schedule may help your child get back on track, and a vaccine series generally does not need to be restarted because of a delay.
Should I delay my child's vaccines?
Talk with your child's healthcare provider before delaying or skipping recommended vaccines. They can discuss your child's individual health needs and the appropriate vaccination schedule.
How do I know if my child's vaccines are up to date?
Your child's healthcare provider can review their immunization record and tell you which vaccines may be due.
Where can I get childhood vaccines?
New Horizon Health Center provides pediatric healthcare services, including immunization care. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
If you’re a parent, you’ve probably seen a lot of conversation about childhood vaccines in the news lately. With recommendations and policies being discussed, it can be easy to wonder: Should I still follow my child’s vaccine schedule?
For parents, the most important thing is simple: stay informed, stay on schedule, and talk with your child’s healthcare provider before making changes to their vaccinations.
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Why does the childhood vaccine schedule matter?
Childhood vaccines are scheduled at specific ages because children need protection from certain diseases at different stages of development.
Following the recommended timeline helps children build protection when they need it most. The childhood immunization schedule lays out when vaccines should be given, how many doses are needed, and the appropriate spacing between doses.
That means your child's well-child visits aren't just about measuring their height and weight. They're also an opportunity to make sure they're protected and up to date on recommended vaccines.
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What happens if my child falls behind?
Life happens. Maybe your child missed an appointment, your family moved, or you simply weren't sure which vaccines were due.
Don't panic, and don't assume you've missed your chance.
Healthcare providers can review your child's immunization record and determine whether a catch-up schedule is needed. In general, a vaccine series does not need to be restarted just because there has been a longer-than-recommended gap between doses.
The important thing is to get back on track.
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Should I delay my child's vaccines?
If you're considering delaying or skipping a vaccine because of something you've seen in the news or online, talk with your child's healthcare provider first.
Your child's provider can answer questions about the vaccines recommended for their age and individual health needs and help you understand the benefits, risks and timing.
You don't have to navigate changing headlines on your own.
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How can I tell if my child is up to date?
Start with their vaccination record.
If you're not sure what your child has received or what may be due next, bring their records to their pediatric appointment. Your healthcare provider can review their history and help you understand what's recommended.
And if your child is behind, it's not too late to get back on schedule.
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A simple reminder for parents
When it comes to your child's health, don't let confusing headlines leave you confused about what to do next.
Keep your child's well-child visits. Keep track of their vaccines. Ask questions. And talk to their healthcare provider before changing their vaccination schedule.
At New Horizon Health Center, we're here to help you understand your child's healthcare needs and keep them on track.
Not sure if your child's vaccines are up to date? Schedule an appointment with our pediatric team today.
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