Understanding childhood vaccines and their benefits

Child raising hand

Recent outbreaks of measles and whooping cough (pertussis) highlight the importance of vaccines to protect your child against serious diseases. The most recent surge in these viruses have taken place as nationwide vaccine rates – especially among children – are in decline.

“Vaccinating your child not only helps to prevent severe illness and hospitalization but can also help your child not miss out on social gatherings and extracurricular activities due to being sick,” said Shikha Doomra, MD, Clinical Medical Director of Capital Blue Cross.

Here is information parents should know about childhood vaccines.

Common types of childhood vaccines

States have different laws regarding childhood vaccines. Consult with your child’s pediatrician to understand how these laws impact you and your family.

Common childhood vaccines recommended for school-age children include the following:

  • DTaP: Protects children against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (also known as whooping cough). Immunity against these diseases decreases over time, so a booster shot is recommended every 10 years.
  • MMR: Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. For the best protection, doctors recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine .
  • Polio: Children need four doses of the polio vaccine to receive maximum protection. The series is given at an interval of four to eight weeks; and a third dose 6 to 12 months after the second.
  • Varicella: Protects against the virus that leads to chickenpox. Two doses of the vaccine is typically effective at preventing chickenpox.
  • Meningococcal: Protects against bacterial infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis, including meningitis. The CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for all preteens and teens, as well as other children and adults at increased risk.
  • Hepatitis B: Protects against Hepatitis B, a contagious liver disease that may lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Studies show that Hepatitis immunity lasts for at least 30 years among healthy people who started vaccination at less than 6 months of age.

How do vaccines work?

Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease. When children are born, their immune systems are not fully developed. Kids are at greater risk of infection.

“Vaccines teach the body to defend itself from harmful germs without getting a serious illness,” Dr. Doomra said.

Vaccines do this by using small amounts of antigens to help children’s immune systems recognize and learn how to fight serious diseases. Antigens are parts of germs that cause the body’s immune system to work.

Immunity is built naturally when the body fights a new infection. But with vaccines, the body can fight without getting sick, thus lowering the risk of a bad outcome.

Like any other medication, vaccines can cause side effects. These include low-grade fever or redness and pain in the injection site.

Dr. Doomra said most of the time, side effects are mild and last for only a few days. Severe, long-lasting side effects are extremely rare.

Tips to help your child before, during, and after vaccine appointment

Everything is easier when you’re prepared. Here are suggested ways to help ease any anxiety your child has about receiving vaccines.

Before the visit:

  • Pack a favorite toy, book, or blanket to take along as an extra comfort.
  • Teach your child the importance of vaccines and how they keep everybody healthy.

During the visit:

  • Distract and comfort your child by cuddling, singing, or talking softly.
  • Smile and make eye contact. Let them know everything is okay.
  • Read the vaccine info sheet typically handed out and ask the provider questions to better understand possible side effects .

After the visit:

  • Watch your child closely for a few days and call your doctor if you see something that concerns you.

See more tips

Are vaccines covered by insurance?

Yes. Because they are a preventive measure, vaccines for school-age children are covered by most health plans offered by Capital Blue Cross if they meet criteria set by the CDC. If you are a Capital member, view your Benefits Booklet to learn more.

If you are a Capital Blue Cross member and need a pediatrician, use MyCare Finder to find a local provider who is in-network.

Other resources:

Tips to find a pediatrician

Preventive care vaccine schedule (Capital Blue Cross)

State vaccination laws (CDC)

This is not medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice , diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. The information provided is meant for a general audience. Capital Blue Cross and its affiliated companies believe this health education resource provides useful information but does not assume any liability associated with its use.