DISEASE PREVENTION
Routine vaccinations protect against us against 14 diseases, helping people live longer, healthier lives. Many parents understand the importance of vaccinations. However, because some diseases have been held in check for so long by vaccines, parents may not be familiar with the names of the illnesses and their potential consequences. Here’s a quick refresher on the most common immunizations your child will receive at well-check visits and the diseases they prevent.
DTAP
Protects your child against Diphtheria, Tetanus And Pertussis (also known as whooping cough). Diphtheria can cause heart failure, pneumonia, paralysis and airway obstruction. Contracting tetanus can lead to serious muscle contractions and impede breathing. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease, which is most dangerous for babies younger than 1 year old. The FDA licensed the DTaP vaccination in 1991.
MMR
Keeps your child safe from the Measles, Mumps and Rubella. The measles can cause mild symptoms such as fever, rash, eye irritability, cough and runny nose – or more serious implications such as pneumonia, brain damage, seizures and sometimes death. Contracting mumps can lead to meningitis, swollen ovaries or testicles, deafness, and sometimes death. The side effects of rubella are typically mild, but it can cause serious birth defects for a baby in utero. In 1971, the three vaccines became available.
TETANUS
