Parents have an obligation to keep their children happy and healthy. Considering how no two individuals are the same, it isn’t at all surprising that every person has their own unique way of parenting.
Outsiders don’t have any business commenting on how one goes about raising their children and keeping them secure. However, some lines have to be crossed when one parent’s choices can cause harm to the majority. This is the situation that needs to be dealt with when it comes to vaccination.
What are Vaccines?
Immunization is the process of making the body stronger against diseases. This can be achieved through the administration of a vaccine. There are different kinds of vaccines, each working to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight off certain diseases that they were made for. This allows people to be free from illness without having to suffer through it first. A common example of vaccination is the flu shot.
It’s important for every person to go through the list of basic and extensive vaccinations because this gives all of us the opportunity to live as strong and healthy individuals. They also prevent the spreading of deathly and non-deathly illnesses.
The process of vaccination should start in early childhood, with MMR, chicken pox, and hepatitis A and B vaccines. However, some vaccines aren’t a one and done type of deal. Some require booster shots to be administered in order for the vaccine to keep working. An example of which is the tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine.
Why Do People Fear Vaccines?
In recent times, more and more parents have gone against getting their children vaccinated for a number of reasons. Primarily, because of the fear planted by the misconceptions they developed based off what they’ve read or watched.
One of the most cited misconceptions is that vaccines, particularly the MMR vaccination, can cause autism. This has been proven false by countless studies that focused on the link between said vaccination and the autism spectrum. In fact, the person who wrote about it, Andrew Wakefield, has been banned from practicing in the United Kingdom due to the damage that his publication inflicted on the public.
As for other misconceptions, the World Health Organization continues to debunk any and all that come up, ensuring the public that it’s perfectly fine to get vaccinated.
How Can People Get Vaccinated?
Vaccines are essential in everyday life as well as travel. Numerous countries won’t allow entry if visitors don’t have the required vaccinations. When preparing for travel, everyone should research the list of vaccinations they need.
Following that is the process of immunization. The best way to go about this is by approaching one’s physician or family doctors. These medical professionals likely track every vaccine administered, but it’s good to check with these doctors to see if any booster shots are needed soon.
As for those without family doctors or regular physicians, federally funded health centers and pharmacies can help as well. It’s important to note that when acquiring the necessary vaccinations, it’s wise to go somewhere reputable. This means locations that are recognized by the government, and have on-hand sterilized equipment like unused needles, and a clean vaccine fridge to hold vaccination that has been approved by the authorities.
