6 Vaccines are a crucial tool for keeping children healthy. This is key during their first years of life. For infants, toddlers, and children, immunization can prevent serious illnesses. It can also reduce hospitalizations. You can help protect families and communities from outbreaks. Recommended vaccines and schedule The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a series of vaccines for children from birth through 18 years of age. These vaccines protect against diseases such as: • Hepatitis B (HepB) • Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) • Polio (IPV) • Pneumococcal disease (PCV13) • Rotavirus • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) • Varicella (chickenpox) • Influenza (flu): annual vaccination starting at 6 months • COVID-19: annual vaccination starting at 6 months Tips for parents and caregivers 1. Keep a record of your child’s vaccinations and bring it to every appointment. 2. Ask your provider if your child is due for any vaccines at each visit. 3. Download and review the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule for children: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/ imz-schedules/child-adolescent-age.html. 4. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have. Help prevent illness with vaccines These vaccines are given in a series of doses at specific ages. Parents and caregivers should work with their child’s provider to make sure they get the vaccines they need. Medicaid covers all recommended childhood vaccines for eligible children. Vaccines are provided at no cost. If you have questions, contact our Maternal Child Resource Line at (505) 923-2008. Common concerns Some parents worry about side effects or the number of vaccines their child gets. It’s important to know that vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety and monitored by healthcare professionals. Mild reactions, such as soreness or a lowgrade fever, are normal and temporary. The risk of serious side effects is extremely low compared to the risk of diseases prevented by vaccines.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODQ1MTY=