Depression and sleep disorders often go hand-in-hand. Find out how depression affects your sleep and what you can do about it.
With all the talk of vaccines lately, you may need a refresher on which vaccines your baby needs. Whether you have a baby, you’re about to have one, or you help take care of them, if there are babies in your life whom you love, this is important information.
At Arlington Family Practice in Arlington, Massachusetts, our providers are passionate about protecting you, your family, and your loved ones from life-threatening diseases.
Vaccines are one of the best methods of providing this protection, so here’s up-to-date information on vaccinations that your baby needs.
Vaccinations, also known as vaccines or immunizations, give your body the defenses it needs to fight specific illnesses that could cause you harm.
The idea behind most vaccines is that your doctor injects a small portion of a weakened or killed disease-causing bacteria or virus into your body. Your body then automatically launches its defense system, which stimulates production of antibodies to fight the disease.
These antibodies stay in your body, where they can protect you against future infections from the same disease.
Immunizations are vital for protecting us from dangerous and even life-threatening diseases. Without vaccines, our children would be defenseless against diseases that can cause infertility, paralysis, and death.
We need vaccines until a disease is entirely eliminated. As an example, although polio isn’t common in the United States, kids and adults here could still be exposed to it by travelers from other countries where polio is more prevalent. For that reason, we still give the vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provides a recommended immunization schedule for kids 18 years old and under. Keep in mind that some of these vaccines require multiple shots at different ages to provide full protection.
Here are recommended vaccines for babies, from birth to 15 months:
As an adult, you should consider boosters of some of these vaccines — you should get a tetanus shot every 10 years, for example. You may also need specific vaccines if you travel to certain other countries.
If you’re about to have a baby and want to develop a plan for their vaccination, or if it’s time for your baby’s next round of immunizations, Arlington Family Practice can help. Just call our office or fill out our convenient online scheduler, and we’ll have your child protected in no time!
You Might Also Enjoy...
Depression and sleep disorders often go hand-in-hand. Find out how depression affects your sleep and what you can do about it.
Cervical cancer can be deadly, but it’s one of the most preventable cancers out there. The key? Getting regular screenings to catch it early. Read on to find out more.
A physical exam is one of the best tools available to maintain your good health. Find out what a physical is likely to include so you can be prepared.
Men often don’t like to talk about their health issues. Here’s a few of those issues that need time and attention even if it’s hard to discuss them.
The flu may be one of the most misunderstood sicknesses out there. Here are a few myths and the relevant facts to help you sort out the truth from all the misinformation you might hear.
Worried that you might be at greater risk of developing diabetes? Find out what risk factors you can control and what you can’t, and how to make the changes you need.