There is a huge debate going on since decades the world over, about the vaccination of babies – should babies be vaccinated or not?
When a close friend of mine became a mother for the first time, she turned to me for advice. She was confused because she had heard conflicting opinions about the efficacy of vaccines. I had spoken to my paediatrician when my own baby was little and had done plenty of research.
I agree that there are some vaccines that are known to have side effects, but the percentage of such cases is very low as compared to the high rates of success. With constant improvement and innovation in technology, many deadly diseases have been eradicated.
For example, DTP vaccine has virtually eliminated diphtheria and tetanus in childhood and has greatly reduced the number of pertussis cases (1).
What are Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis? (1)(2)
Diphtheria: It’s a serious infection of the throat that can block the airway and cause severe breathing problems in infants and children. Diphtheria can also cause paralysis (unable to move), heart failure, and even death.
Tetanus (Lockjaw): Tetanus happens when a wound like a cut gets infected with tetanus bacteria (germ) that’s often found in dirt. The bacteria present in the wound makes a poison that causes muscles all over the body to spasm (tighten) painfully. This leads to the jaw to “lock” and become stiff, making your child unable to open his mouth or swallow. Tetanus, if not treated well on time, can also lead to death.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough): It’s a respiratory illness with cold-like symptoms that lead to severe coughing (the “whooping” sound happens when a child breathes in deeply after a severe coughing fit). These coughing spells can last for weeks and can lead to pneumonia (lung infection), seizures (convulsions), brain damage, and death.
Serious complications can affect children under 1 year old, and those younger than 6 months old are especially at risk.
When Should Your Baby Get Vaccinated Against DTP? (2)
DTP vaccine should be given to children at following ages. It can also be combined with other vaccines.
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12 to 18 months
- 4 to 6 years
- Booster Shot: 12 years and every 10 years afterwards
Are there any side effects of DTP vaccine? (2)
Just like any other medicine or vaccine, DTP vaccine also has some side effects. However, the reactions or side effects usually start within 3 days and do not last long.
If the vaccination spot becomes sore then mild compressions with a warm, damp cloth or a heating pad on the injection site may help reduce soreness, as can moving or using the arm.
Common but Not Serious Mild Reactions
- Fatigue
- Fever o Fussy
- Less appetite
- Soreness or swelling where the shot was given o Vomiting
Less Common Moderate to Serious Reactions-
- Crying nonstop for 3 hours or more
- Fever of 105° F (40.6° C) or higher
- Less alert, limp and pale
- Seizure
Severe Reactions That Are Very Rare-
- Breathing problems and shock
- Long seizure leading into a coma.
Final Thought
Deciding whether to get your child vaccinated or not is a “catch 22” in my opinion. I mean, you have to be really sure of your decision. If you decide to get your baby vaccinated, then completing the course becomes necessary. And if not, then be prepared for any adversities.
What’s #YourCareQuotient? How much do you understand your child when it comes to sleep patterns, feeding and vaccination? Take the easy, interactive quiz that guides you and get the childcare guide now.
Disclaimer: This blog is not and should not be considered as medical advice. I have only written my thoughts on the subject after a brief interaction with my doctor and research. In case of any doubts or questions, please reach out to your doctor or caregiver.
Reference:
- https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/dtap-vaccine.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cg/dtp-vaccine.html
