Types of Immunization

What are the types of immunization?

Immunizations are one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your child healthy and safe from certain communicable and potentially life-threatening diseases. From the moment your child is born, they will begin to get vaccinated and will continue to get regular vaccines throughout their childhood and teen years. Of course, your child’s immunization schedule is based on their age, and we will continue to bring your child in for well-child checkups, where we will also make sure they stay up to date on the vaccines they need.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a type of virus that leads to chronic liver problems and has the possibility of causing long-term health issues. Your baby will get the first dose (out of three) of the Hep B vaccine before they leave the hospital after birth. They will get the second dose around 1-2 months old and the third and final dose at 4 months.

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough

This is another vaccine that all children need to get and like the Hep B vaccine, the DTaP vaccine is given in three separate doses: at 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months. Children will need to get two additional shots between 15-18 months and again at 4-6 months to keep their immunity. Preteens will also get one Tdap shot between 11-12 years old.

Polio

The polio vaccine is given in four separate doses. Your child will get their first dose at 2 months old, and then they will get another dose at 4 months, between 6-18 months old and again between 4-6 years old.

Pneumococcal

All children under 2 years old should get the pneumococcal vaccine. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines: PPSV23 and PCV13. Ask your pediatrician which vaccines your child should get, especially if they have certain preexisting health problems.

Rotavirus

There are two types of rotavirus vaccines that can protect infants from this dangerous disease. One vaccine (RV5) is given in three doses: 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months, while the other vaccine (RV1) is given in two doses: 2 and 4 months old. This is not a standard injectable vaccine; children can be vaccinated by placing drops in their mouth.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

This disease has the ability to be fatal so it’s important for children to get the Hib vaccine. Multiple shots need to be administered at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and again between 12-15 months old to fully vaccinate the child.

Chickenpox

It’s a good idea for all kids under 13 years old to get the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine. This is another two-dose vaccine, with the first dose administered between 12-15 months old and a second dose administered between 4-6 years old.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

This vaccine requires two separate doses, which are first administered between 12-15 months old and again between 4-6 years old. You may choose to get the second vaccine before 4-6 years old. As long as the second dose is received at least 28 days before the first dose, this is fine.

Hepatitis A

Another chronic liver disorder, Hepatitis A vaccine should be given to all children between 12–23 months old. If your child hasn’t had the vaccine they must get vaccinated before 18 years old, as this is the best way to protect your child from contracting this virus.

Influenza (flu)

Children 7 years old and over should talk to our Chicago pediatricians about getting their annual flu shot, which can protect them and those around them from getting the flu virus.

If you have questions about child vaccinations, call our Chicago office at 773-348-8300 or our Northbrook Office at 847-480-1500

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Chicago Office Children's Healthcare Associates
2900 N Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 348-8300
Fax: (773) 348-7163
Northbrook Office Children's Healthcare Associates
1535 Lake Cook Rd. Suite 101
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 480-1500
Fax: (847) 480-1510