The Baby Mum-Mum Blog

Infant and Toddler Health: Children and Vaccines

By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

Vaccinations have typically been a normal part of a baby’s check-up with the pediatrician, yet parents researching vaccines may find some conflicting information.  This week, 2 strikingly different articles surfaced regarding infant and child vaccination.

 

Current Status of Vaccines

In a recent comparison study of the health of children before and after the use of vaccines, the study found that immunization has dramatically improved the health status of children. The inoculation of infants and children with 13 vaccine-preventable diseases has helped decrease the number of illnesses, deaths, and hospitalizations in the US.  Researchers conclude the reason for the successfulness of vaccines is largely due to maintaining high vaccine coverage throughout infancy and childhood along with increased accessibility to vaccines.  Implementation of infant and childhood immunization programs is another reason for the improved health status, yet researchers warn to continue with efforts to ensure all children have access to vaccines. The most common vaccines include chicken pox, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, and tetanus.

 

Parents Opting Out of Vaccines

Even with the proven success of minimizing disease, a Boston mother recently signed a letter stating her toddler should be exempt from the vaccinations required to enter preschool.  This mother claims her reason for opting out of vaccination was out of concern for her toddler’s safety.  The number of parents opting out of vaccinating their children has increased three-fold in the past 5 years prompting the question: what are the concerns with childhood immunizations?

 

Proposed Health Risks

For many years, vaccines have been viewed as imperative to infant and toddler health, yet an increasing number of parents are now asking themselves if vaccines are really necessary. Although no evidence has proven vaccines directly cause a secondary illness, some parents and doctors speculate vaccines may be linked to:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Neurological symptoms
• Shingles
• Allergic responses
• Autoimmune responses

 

In addition to the vaccine itself, there has been a great deal of controversy over the levels of mercury within the immunization.  Mercury is a common preservative used in childhood immunizations that has been associated with neurological symptoms in children and heavy metal toxicity.

Reducing Risk

Although vaccines are suspect for reactions or illness in infants and toddlers, no research has been conducted to prove these theories.  In addition, no studies have examined long-term health effects of some of the newer vaccines, such as chicken pox.   One strategy you can employ to protect the health of your infant or child is to obtain one vaccination at a time.  Many doctors are willing to stagger immunizations over several months instead of getting multiple vaccines at once.  This allows ample time to see if your infant has a reaction. It is important to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your physician. 

For more information on vaccines, visit:

The Immunization Action Coalition

Vaccination Risk Awareness Network

 

References:

1. JAMA and Archives Journals (2007, November 16). Number Of Cases Of Most Vaccine-preventable Diseases In US At All-time Low.

 

2. McGill University Health Center (2006, October 22). More Evidence To Clear Measles Mumps Rubella Vaccine As A Risk Factor For Autism.

 

3. Retrieved November 21, 2007, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2005/04/050419110315.htm