There’s a lot of talk out these days about vaccines and immunization. Thanks to our decades of experience, including recognition as America’s Top Pediatricians for several years running and one of the best doctors in Texas for six years running, the mother-daughter power team, Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj, have the knowledge and experience necessary to explain they why behind each immunization as well as the research that shows their safety and efficacy.
One of the most common questions asked is the difference between immunizations and vaccines. Simply put, a person becomes immune (builds immunity) after they are given a vaccine. Immunization occurs after a person is given a vaccine because vaccines prompt a person’s own immune system to begin producing antibodies to a virus or bacteria that causes illness.
The traditional and recommended vaccination schedule starts children with the hepatitis B vaccine within a couple of days after birth. While it might seem extreme to start children at this age, our goal with vaccines is to give children the most protection possible. Children are most susceptible to disease at a young age. After this vaccine, your child will begin a schedule starting at two months.
Oftentimes, we will use combination vaccines so we do not have to give your child as many shots. Our goals are always to give great treatment and a positive experience to children so they learn the importance of visiting the doctor.
Many parents have asked us about the relationship between vaccines and autism. At Peekaboo Pediatrics, we’re committed to providing the best care possible to our patients and their families. We stay on top of the most recent and cutting-edge scientific research. With that in mind, there has been no evidence that supports a cause and effect relationship between vaccinations and autism. By delaying or completely declining vaccines, children are put at a bigger risk for infection and deadly diseases begin to make a comeback.
Contact us to learn more about getting your child vaccinated and schedule an appointment. We also invite parents who are curious about vaccines to get in touch with us so we can answer any questions they have.