Immunization is a safe and effective way to help the body fight off certain diseases. A tiny amount of the disease-causing organism (or its products) is taken into the body through an injection or oral vaccine. This stimulates the body to produce antibodies, substances that fight against that disease for months or even years.

Immunization is important because it will protect your child against diseases that can hurt, cripple or kill. Many diseases are still a threat to children. Immunization helps children build natural defenses against these diseases. You should begin an active immunization program when your baby is two months old.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, every child should be protected against these diseases:

• Polio, which can lead to permanent paralysis and even death
• Measles, which in severe cases can cause ear problems, pneumonia, brain damage or death
• Rubella or "German measles" which can cause birth defects if the baby's mother contracts it during pregnancy
• Diphtheria pertussis or "whooping cough" tetanus mumps Hib, which can cause bacterial meningitis hepatitis B, which can cause liver disease

Immunizations for diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus are given together in a single injection called a DPT. Polio vaccine is given orally. Measles, mumps and rubella are also given together as a single injection called an MMR. Hepatitis B immunization is recommended shortly after birth, at two months and a third dose at nine to 12 months.

Schedule of Childhood Immunizations

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