Newborn babies are immune to many diseases because of antibodies passed from their mothers. But this immunity only lasts a month to a year. Before vaccines, many children died from diseases that vaccines now prevent, such as whooping cough, measles, and polio.

If a child is not vaccinated and is exposed to a disease, the child’s body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. To be effective, vaccines must be given on a set schedule, beginning during the child’s first two years of life.

As a parent, you work to protect your child, and vaccines are a valuable tool in your ongoing efforts to keep your child healthy and safe. If you are not sure your child’s vaccines are up-to-date, call your child’s doctor to make sure.

For more information about childhood immunizations, visit these websites:

American Academy of Pediatrics
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services