Why Vaccines are Important?

How Vaccines Work: Introduce weakened/inactive form of germ • Introduce weakened/inactive form of germ Body learns to recognize and fight it • Body learns to recognize and fight it Creates protective antibodies (memory) • Creates protective antibodies (memory) If exposed later, body fights it off quickly • If exposed later, body fights it off quickly Benefits of Vaccination:

When to Worry (Red Flags)?

Seek immediate medical attention if: High fever (above 104°F/40°C) • High fever (above 104°F/40°C) Fever lasting more than 3 days • Fever lasting more than 3 days Severe crying for more than 3 hours • Severe crying for more than 3 hours Unusual drowsiness or unresponsiveness • Unusual drowsiness or unresponsiveness Difficulty breathing • Difficulty breathing Severe swelling at injection site • Severe swelling at injection site Seizures/convulsions • Seizures/convulsions Allergic reaction (hiv...

Before Vaccination: Keep vaccination card updated • Keep vaccination card updated Note any previous reactions • Note any previous reactions Inform doctor about any current illness • Inform doctor about any current illness Don't miss appointments • Don't miss appointments After Vaccination: Stay at clinic for 15-30 minutes for observation • Stay at clinic for 15-30 minutes for observation Monitor baby for reactions • Monitor baby for reactions Keep vaccination record safe • Keep vaccination re...

Q: Mera bachcha ka bukhar ho gaya vaccination ke baad - kya karun?

A: Mild fever (100-102°F) after vaccination is normal and actually shows the immune system is responding! Give paracetamol drops as prescribed by your doctor, keep baby hydrated with breastmilk, dress lightly, and offer extra comfort. If fever is very high (above 104°F), lasts more than 3 days, or baby seems very unwell, consult your pediatrician.

Q: Can I delay vaccines if my baby is slightly unwell?

A: Minor illnesses like a mild cold don't usually require delaying vaccination. However, if baby has moderate/high fever or a more serious illness, postpone until recovered. Always consult your doctor - they will advise based on baby's condition. Catching up on delayed vaccines is important!

Q: Vaccines mein bahut pain hota hai - kaise comfort karun?

A: You can help: breastfeed immediately after (natural pain relief), distract with a toy or singing, hold baby close for comfort, and use a cold compress on the injection site. Some doctors apply numbing cream before. The brief discomfort is worth the lifelong protection!

Q: Is it safe to give multiple vaccines at once?

A: Yes, absolutely safe! Babies' immune systems handle thousands of antigens daily. Combination vaccines reduce the number of injections while providing the same protection. Studies show multiple vaccines together don't overwhelm the immune system. Following the schedule ensures timely protection.

Q: What if we missed some vaccines - can we catch up?

A: Yes! A catch-up schedule can be created. Consult your pediatrician who will recommend a schedule to get your child up to date. It's never too late to vaccinate. Starting late is better than not vaccinating at all. --- This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025 --- Need personalized guidance? Book a consultation with our pediatricians or explore our Care Plans for 24/7 expert support!

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Benefit	Explanation
Prevents serious diseases	Polio, diphtheria, measles can be fatal
Herd immunity	Protects those who can't be vaccinated
Eradicates diseases	Smallpox eliminated globally
Cost-effective	Prevention cheaper than treatment
Safe	Thoroughly tested and monitored

Reaction	Management
Fever (bukhar)	Paracetamol as advised by doctor
Injection site pain	Cold compress, gentle movement
Mild swelling/redness	Cold compress, usually resolves in 2-3 days
Fussiness	Extra comfort, feeding on demand
Mild rash	Usually self-resolving

Aspect	Government	Private
Cost	Free	Paid
Essential vaccines	Available	Available
Additional vaccines	Limited	More options
Quality	Same efficacy	Same efficacy
Convenience	Fixed schedule/location	Flexible timing