Vaccinating your child is incredibly important. When you vaccinate your child you not only protect them, but those around them. This is why it is so vital that you educate yourself on the importance of vaccinations and choose to immunize your child starting at birth. In order to make the vaccinations as effective as possible you should do a couple things. Here are some things you need to know.

1. Don't Give A Fever Reducer Before the Vaccines

In the past parents use to give their children some Tylenol either before the vaccines or immediately following. This was to help prevent any discomfort for the child and a fever. However, it is now advised by many professionals that you shouldn't give a child any fever reducer unless the child shows an adverse reaction following the immunization. The reason for this is that you want the vaccine to trigger the child's immune system. A fever means that the immune system has kicked into drive and is making antibodies. When you get a vaccine you want the body to make antibodies to fight whatever pathogen was injected. This is why you shouldn't suppress the immune system in any way, including Tylenol. Thus, hold off on any medication unless the child shows adverse reactions to the vaccine.

2. Don't Miss Schedule Immunizations

There is a strict schedule that should be followed when doing vaccinations. This is for good reason. Each vaccination doesn't just happen in one quick shot--it is a process and there are boosters. The booster will help to keep the body healthy and safe from dangerous diseases. If you fall behind you leave your child susceptible to contracting illnesses. This is why you should make sure that the child is up to date and if you do get behind make sure you catch up and then stay on schedule after.

3. Don't Vaccinate The Child While Sick

In order for the vaccine to work as well as possible, you need to child to have a healthy immune system. If the child's system is compromised they might not be able to fight the illness as well, or create the proper amount of antibodies. This is why it is better to wait until the child is well before giving them an immunization. If your child has the flu, a severe cold, or some infection, you should call and reschedule your vaccinations. Don't hold off too long, just until the child is well again.

By doing these things you can be sure that you are protecting your child and getting the best results from your vaccinations. For more information, contact a family doctor like Better Family Care Practice.