Why should I vaccinate my children?

Health officials and pediatricians urge parents to vaccinate their children, citing proven benefits for individual and community health. Vaccination protects children against serious illnesses such as measles, whooping cough, polio and influenza, reducing hospitalizations and long-term complications. Experts note that vaccines undergo rigorous testing before approval and are continually monitored for safety.

Dr. Maria Gomez, a pediatrician with more than 15 years’ experience at a children’s hospital, said that vaccinating "thousands" of children in her practice has prevented outbreaks and saved lives. Public health agencies report dramatic declines in disease incidence after vaccine introduction, evidence that vaccination works. Parents are advised to follow the recommended immunization schedule to ensure timely protection.

Side effects are generally mild and short-lived, typically including soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever or fussiness. Serious adverse reactions are rare and monitored by national safety systems. Pediatricians emphasize that the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases — which can cause hospitalization, permanent disability or death — are far greater than the risks of vaccination.

Community immunity benefits vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants too young for certain shots and people with weakened immune systems. When vaccination rates fall, outbreaks can and do recur, placing those individuals at risk.

Clinicians recommend discussing concerns with a trusted pediatrician, who can review a child’s medical history and provide up-to-date evidence. Reliable sources such as national public health agencies and specialty professional organizations offer accessible explanations of vaccine safety and effectiveness. Parents making informed decisions with health professionals help protect their children, preserve community health and contribute to the control and elimination of serious infectious diseases. Healthcare teams also monitor vaccine supply and accessibility; clinics often offer appointments, reminder systems and educational materials so families can stay current, reduce barriers to care and maintain the collective protections vaccines provide.