Vaccinations, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), are one of the most powerful tools that parents have in helping their children avoid 16 different serious diseases. At Thousand Oaks Pediatrics, parents can rely upon the experienced pediatric medical team for one-on-one care, including newborn, childhood, and teen vaccines, delivered with compassion and care. Book an appointment for your child at the Newbury Park, California, clinic with the online scheduler or call to speak with a team member.
Thousand Oaks Pediatrics recommends that children have the vaccinations listed on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention schedule. This includes:
The vaccinations needed at birth and in your baby’s first year, such as hepatitis B, DTaP, and rotavirus, will be discussed with you during your baby’s first visit to Thousand Oaks Pediatrics or at your prenatal consultation before your new addition arrives. Vaccines are given at their well visits and are spread out over an 18 month period. Your child will usually have at least a few months in-between vaccination appointments.
Your Thousand Oaks Pediatrics doctor follows the CDC recommendations for vaccinations by age. For most vaccinations, there's an age range of anywhere from a few months to a few years. Some vaccinations have multiple doses.
If your child misses one or more recommended vaccinations, don't panic: there's a plan for catch-up vaccines for children who need them. If you're new to Thousand Oaks Pediatrics, your pediatrician will carefully review your child's vaccination history to determine whether any catch-up is needed.
When your child's still an infant, you can't really explain it to them, however, you can provide calm and stable support throughout the process. You can hold your baby on your lap, or at least be right by their side touching them, for most vaccinations. Soft words coupled with cuddling can make the vaccination much easier for your baby.
Maintain eye contact as much as possible during the vaccination, and keep your child distracted with favorite toys or books. The old adage "this will hurt me more than it hurts you" is really true when it comes to childhood vaccinations. While it's upsetting to see your child cry or get distressed, remember that any pain is extremely short-lived and that your child will forget about the vaccination long before you do.
After vaccination, you can alleviate discomfort in the injection area with a cool compress. Your Thousand Oaks Pediatrics doctor may also recommend using an over-the-counter non-aspirin pain reliever if your child needs it.
Your child's appetite may be lower the day after a vaccination. This isn't unusual, but if their appetite is still depressed a full 24 hours after the vaccination, contact your pediatrician for guidance.
Book your child's vaccination visit at Thousand Oaks Pediatrics via the online tool or phone the office today.
