If you have a child starting kindergarten in the fall, you may wonder what immunizations they need to have by the time the first day of school rolls around. There are 5 major vaccinations that most schools require, though you should check with your school district to verify exactly what your child will need. The 5 major immunizations are as follows.

Chickenpox

While getting chickenpox used to be a rite of passage that everyone had to go through, this is no longer the case. The vaccine became readily available in the United States in the year 1995, and has since become a staple for young children. Most children will get their first varicella (chickenpox) vaccine at 12 months of age, and then again when they are between the ages of 4 and 6. 

Dipthheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis

Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis are all dangerous infections that could land your child in the hospital. Diphtheria is a serious infection of the nose and throat that causes weakness, fever, coughing, and labored breathing. Tetanus is an infection that comes about from a foreign object with bacteria entering the bloodstream. It can cause lockjaw and can be deadly. Pertussis is also called whooping cough, which is a serious and dangerous cough that can make breathing extremely difficult. Unfortunately, whooping cough is actually on the rise right now in the United States, so you need to be sure to immunize your child against it. 

Measles, Mumps, Rubella

Measles is a serious infection that can cause issues like pneumonia and severe ear infections. Mumps can be mild in most people, though in some it may cause swelling in the sex organs, and potentially even the brain. Rubella is chickenpox, which was previously discussed. 

Polio

Polio was once a pandemic in the United States that has since been eliminated due to immunizations. This dangerous disease would affect the brain and spinal cord of young children, rendering them unable to walk or even breathe on their own. In 1960 a vaccine was developed that potentially saved millions from having to go through this disease. 

Flu Shot

Most school districts and pediatricians agree that you should have your child receive a yearly flu shot in order to help them avoid getting sick. 

In conclusion, while getting your child immunized against these illnesses may be required by your school district, it is also a smart thing to do as a parent. Life is hard enough without having to go through illnesses that could have been avoided. To schedule your child's vaccines, talk to their pediatrician. 

For more information on immunizations, contact a professional in Grand Junction, CO.