FAQS about Child Immunizations

Get all of your questions about childhood vaccines answered.

We know that there is a lot of information and misinformation out there when it comes to vaccinating your child. Isn’t it time to find out the truth about this important preventive health measure? Read below to have your questions answered, and turn to our Maricopa, AZ, pediatrician, Dr. Anthony DiGeorge, for treatment!

Q. Are vaccines safe?

A. Yes, the Food and Drug Administration review all vaccines to ensure that they are safe. Not keeping your child up-to-date on their vaccines could lead to outbreaks of diseases that are serious but completely preventable with the proper vaccine schedule in place. The benefits of getting your child vaccinated far outweigh the risks, as vaccines can save lives.

Q. What are the side effects associated with vaccines?

A. Most side effects from childhood vaccines include minor effects such as soreness or redness at the injection site, or a low-grade fever. These side effects usually won’t last more than a couple of days and aren’t anything to worry about. Although it is rare for a vaccine to cause a serious reaction, if your child does experience a reaction after being vaccinated, call our pediatrician’s office.

Q. How often should my child get vaccinated?

A. It isn’t always easy to keep track of how often your child should come in for vaccines, which is why the CDC has made it simpler for parents to remember with this immunization schedule for both infants and children up to 18 years old. If you have questions about this schedule don’t hesitate to ask our pediatrician, Dr. DiGeorge.

Q. Why do some vaccines require multiple doses?

A. Continuing to bring your child into the office when they need their next vaccine dose is important to providing their bodies with the best defenses and protection against illnesses. After all, many vaccines require more than one dose in order to fully build up your child’s immunity.

Q. When should my child get their first vaccine?

A. It’s important to start vaccinating your little one right away before they come in contact with any of these serious diseases, particularly because they can be fatal or life-threatening to infants and little ones whose immune systems are still developing.

Your child will receive their first vaccine most likely in the hospital, or within 24 hours of their birth. From there, you will visit your Maricopa, AZ, children’s doctors for the next vaccination about 1-2 months after receiving their first one.

Give Us a Call!

Do you still have questions about getting your child vaccinated in Maricopa, AZ? If so, don’t hesitate to call Southwestern Pediatrics today at (520) 568-9500. We are happy to schedule appointments and answer any questions you might have about your child’s health.