Mandatory and optional vaccinations for babies

In this article:

• The importance of vaccinations
• Mandatory vaccinations
• Recommended vaccinations

The importance of vaccinations

Dr. Tibor Kovács, a pediatrician with decades of experience, emphasizes the importance of both mandatory and optional vaccines. This article explores how these vaccinations contribute to the long-term well-being of children.

One of the most crucial tools in preventive healthcare is vaccination, which has provided protection for humanity for centuries. The prevalence of many previously common and severe diseases has significantly declined or even been eradicated. For example, thanks to vaccinations against measles, mumps, and rubella, these illnesses have become rare. The development and implementation of vaccines have revolutionized public health, saving millions of lives worldwide and enabling us to live in a safer environment.

Mandatory vaccinations

Infant vaccinations are a cornerstone of modern healthcare, and their importance cannot be overstated. By participating in vaccination programs, we not only protect our own well-being but also actively contribute to preserving public health and preventing the spread of dangerous diseases.

• BCG Vaccine: The first vaccination given to newborns in the hospital, providing protection against tuberculosis.
• Diphtheria Vaccine: Protects against diphtheria, a rare but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection, primarily affecting unvaccinated children.
• Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccine: A highly dangerous illness for infants and young children, starting with cold-like symptoms and progressing into severe coughing fits.
• Tetanus Vaccine: Prevents tetanus, a bacterial infection that produces a strong toxin affecting the nervous system and muscles, leading to stiffness and severe muscle spasms.
• Polio Vaccine: Protects against poliovirus, which spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause inflammation of the central nervous system, potentially leading to permanent paralysis.
• Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib) Vaccine: Prevents infections such as meningitis, epiglottitis, and severe upper respiratory tract infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B bacteria.
• Hepatitis B Vaccine: Provides protection against the hepatitis B virus, which can lead to severe liver disease.
• Pneumococcus Vaccine: Protects against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia, middle ear infections, and meningitis.
• Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine: Recommended from 9 months of age, but the ideal time for administration is at 1.5 years, before the child starts daycare or kindergarten. Since September 2019, the chickenpox vaccine has been mandatory and free for children.
• MMR Vaccine: A three-component vaccine providing immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). The first dose is administered at 15 months, with a booster given at 11 years of age.

If infant vaccinations are not administered on time, the immune system may not be adequately prepared to fight infections, potentially leading to severe illnesses. That is why it is crucial to follow the mandatory vaccination schedule, which primarily covers the first 18 months of a child’s life. These vaccines play a vital role in safeguarding children’s health.

Recommended vaccinations

In addition to mandatory vaccinations, there are recommended vaccines that provide protection against severe infections. Among these, the rotavirus vaccine is particularly important. Since its introduction, the number of infants hospitalized due to vomiting and diarrhea has significantly decreased.

• Rotavirus Vaccine: Protects against a gastrointestinal infection causing diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and, in severe cases, hospitalization. One major advantage of this vaccine is that it is administered orally, meaning infants do not need to be injected.
• Meningococcus B and Meningococcus C Vaccines: These vaccines protect against bacterial infections that can cause meningitis, sepsis (blood poisoning), and severe neurological complications.

Although these two bacteria are different, they can both lead to purulent (bacterial) meningitis, one of the most feared illnesses for both parents and pediatricians. This disease progresses extremely rapidly, leading to severe infections of the nervous system. While not among the most common childhood illnesses, its severity makes it highly recommended to vaccinate against it. By opting for these recommended vaccines, parents can provide their children with additional protection against potentially life-threatening infections.