Importance of early immunization in children

In today’s era, with the modernization of medical science, Immunization has attained a milestone and there has been advent of vaccines that can prevent more than 20 life threatening conditions, including diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, rotavirus, influenza, mumps, measles, rubella, typhoid, chickenpox, hepatitis A, Hepatitis B etc.

The boon is unmeasurable.

For every parent the health and well being of their child is priority and they need to realise that the only way to safeguard their children from preventable diseases is through early immunization. National Immunization Schedule and Indian Academy of Paediatrics recommend immunization right from birth. Let’s have a closer look at how and why early immunization can be beneficial for children.

Protection against deadly diseases: The diseases mentioned earlier which are otherwise vaccine-preventable often have severe consequences ranging from school absenteeism, hospitalization, long long-duration disabilities to even death in severe conditions. Early Vaccination as advised by paediatricians will bring down incidences of these cases amongst our young population

Herd immunity : It is the resistance to the spread of an infectious disease amongst a population with pre-existing immunity. This pre-existing immunity comes from either a previous infection or Vaccination. As the spread of infection is unlikely in that particular population with herd immunity, this helps protect those individuals who couldn’t receive the vaccine due to some medical conditions

Long-term immunity : Immunization as per the guidelines makes sure that your child is protected from certain threatening infections that can have life long residual disease. For example, the measles vaccine will not only prevent measles but also prevent encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) later in life.

Cost-effective prevention: It is important to understand that cost of vaccinating a child is much lower than actually treating a child who has got a vaccine-preventable disease. Hospitalization, medications and long-term care not only adds to the financial burden of the family but also the emotional trauma for the parents.

Peace of mind for parents: All the vaccines have undergone vigorous research to ensure their efficacy and safety. All parents can have a peace of mind knowing that they have taken proactive step to protect their child by vaccinating them.

Contribution to global health: By now we have already realised that vaccination is not only beneficial at individual and community level, but also cumulatively has a deep impact at Global health level. Human history is evident that how vaccination campaigns has helped eradicate dreadful diseases like smallpox and now polio is on the verge of eradication.

In conclusion, immunization is a key to a child’s healthy future. So, by early vaccination, parents can set the foundation for their child’s long-term health and well-being.

(Author: Dr Priyashree Mukherjee, Consultant Paediatrician and Associate Professor, K J Somaiya Medical College and Hospital)