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On the Record
The Risks and Benefits of Infant Immunizations
By Nicole Magistro
"Nearly every vaccine is based on the science of how each disease works," says Dr. Cashore, who is also a professor of pediatrics at Brown University. One example is the measles vaccination, which is not very effective before the child's 1st birthday. Because small children are less likely to be exposed (according to the assumption that there is less social contact), pediatricians usually wait until the child is 15 months old.
On the other hand, doctors administer the first vaccine in the hepatitis B series before the baby is 6 months old. "This is a disease that lays dormant for the first years but later turns into a lifelong disease," says Dr. Cashore. "In this case, the sooner you immunize the better."
Other vaccines, like the one for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), aren't required until children are much older. But pediatricians will often encourage them sooner. "There is a limited window of opportunity when children and parents are making frequent medical visits," says Dr. Cashore. "We want to be proactive about preventive medicine."
Another way for parents to understand vaccines is to stay informed about the current schedule. Each year, the American Academy of Pediatrics issues the recommended vaccinations along with expert-written information about each one. The sheet contains all of the ingredients, as well as side effects associated with the vaccine, and it is available online at the Childhood Immunization Support Program. So if a parent has a concern, like Arora did, he or she can easily access related research and information.
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