Immunisation is a way of protecting against serious diseases. Once we have been immunised our bodies are able to fight those diseases more effectively if we come into contact with them. Vaccines contain a small part of the bacterium or virus that causes a disease or tiny amount of chemicals that the bacterium produces. Vaccines work by causing the body’s immune system to make antibodies. If your child comes into contact with the infection, the antibodies will recognise it and be ready to protect him/her. Only because of vaccines many diseases have been eradicated from many parts of the world such as small pox and polio.
Relax! Vaccines are safe!
Before a vaccine is licensed, its safety and effectiveness have to be thoroughly tested. After they have been licensed, the safety of vaccines continues to be monitored. Any rare side effects can then be assessed further. Research from around the world shows that immunisation is the safest way to protect your child’s health.
How to calm down the baby?
While going for immunisations, kids are equally apprehensive as adults are. My request to all parents is that never lie to a child who can understand what vaccinations are. This maintains a rapport between the child and a Paediatrician which goes a long way. There are various ways to amuse a child noticeably by using rattles or certain colourful toys. One can also give sucrose while vaccinating a child.
How are vaccines administered?
Immunisations are given by 4 routes:
- Most of the vaccines are given by intramuscular route and the preferred sites are deltoid, anterolateral part of thigh.
- The other route is subcutaneous route which is in the skin, vaccines given by this route is MMR, Chicken pox.
- The next route which is being used is oral route, Rotavirus and oral polio are the ones given by this route.
- The least commonly utilised route is intra dermal and the only vaccine given by this route is BCG vaccine.
FAQ's
Q. What is immunisation and why is it important?
Ans.Immunisation protects the body from serious diseases by training the immune system to recognise and fight infections. Vaccines introduce a small part of a virus or bacterium, helping the body create antibodies. This prepares the child’s immune system to respond effectively if exposed to the disease in the future.
Q. How do vaccines work in the body?
Ans.Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies without causing the disease itself. These antibodies remain in the body, ready to recognise and fight the actual infection if encountered. This process ensures that children are protected against potentially serious illnesses while avoiding the risks associated with natural infection.
Q. Are vaccines safe for children?
Ans.Yes. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before being licensed. Even after approval, their safety is continuously monitored globally. Research shows that immunisation is the safest way to protect children from dangerous diseases. Rare side effects are carefully assessed to ensure ongoing safety and efficacy.
Q. How can parents calm a baby during vaccination?
Ans.Parents can keep babies calm by being honest and gentle. Using colorful toys, rattles, or distractions can help. Offering sucrose or comfort during the shot can reduce discomfort. Establishing trust with the pediatrician ensures the child remains relaxed and confident during future immunisations.
Q. How are vaccines administered to children?
Ans.Vaccines are administered through four main routes: intramuscular (muscle), subcutaneous (under the skin), oral (by mouth), and intradermal (into the skin). The method depends on the vaccine type, age, and body part. Intramuscular injections are most common, while oral vaccines are given for polio and rotavirus.
Q. Which vaccines are given intramuscularly?
Ans.Most vaccines, including DPT, Hepatitis B, and influenza, are given intramuscularly. Preferred injection sites are the deltoid muscle in the arm or the anterolateral part of the thigh in infants. This route ensures effective absorption and immune response, providing strong protection against targeted diseases.
Q. Which vaccines are administered subcutaneously?
Ans.Vaccines like MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) and Chicken Pox are administered via the subcutaneous route, which delivers the vaccine under the skin. This method allows the body’s immune system to detect the virus and build immunity efficiently while causing minimal discomfort to children.
Q. Are there vaccines given orally?
Ans.Yes, some vaccines are administered orally, such as the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and rotavirus vaccine. This method is non-invasive, easy to administer, and stimulates both gut and systemic immunity, providing effective protection against diseases affecting the intestines or nervous system.
Q. What vaccines are given intradermally?
Ans.The BCG vaccine, which protects against tuberculosis, is administered intradermally. This route involves injecting a small amount directly into the skin, allowing the immune system to detect and respond to the vaccine efficiently while using minimal volume.
Q. Why is timely vaccination important for children?
Ans.Timely vaccination ensures that children develop immunity before exposure to serious diseases. Following the recommended immunisation schedule protects against preventable illnesses, reduces disease complications, and helps maintain public health by decreasing the spread of infections within communities.
