A baby’s immune system is not developed when they are born. This can put them at risk of infections. Babies are exposed to thousands of germs every day, but vaccines work with the body’s natural immune defenses to develop your baby’s protection against disease safely. 

It is always better to prevent disease than to treat it after it occurs. Vaccination is a highly effective, safe, and easy way to protect your baby. 

Vacunas para sus niños

Vaccines introduce a small number of antigens into the body. Antigens alert the immune system to start working to build antibodies, which will attack the virus if your baby is exposed in the future. 

This quick video from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains how vaccines work:

What Vaccines Does Your Child Need?

Your pediatrician or medical provider will make sure you receive the correct vaccines at the right time to protect your child. 

Childhood Immunization Schedule 

What to Expect When Your Child is Vaccinated

Your child will get vaccinated at their pediatrician’s office or a local health clinic. The video below from the CDC explains what to expect after vaccination. 

You can help your child feel better after vaccination by:

• Use a cool wet cloth on the injection site to soothe pain, swelling, and redness. 
• Give a non-aspirin pain reliever for fever. 
• Give your child lots of liquids. Your child may have less of an appetite after getting a shot. 
• Call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s reaction to a vaccine.  

Learn More:

Frequently Asked Questions about Childhood Immunization 

Tomar la decisión acerca de las vacunas: Respuesta para las preocupaciones frecuentes

Sources: 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Vaccines for Children