Immunization in Houston, Baytown, and Greater Greenspoint, TX
How Immunization Works
When an infectious virus or bacteria invades the body, the immune system fights back by producing antibodies. Antibodies attach to these pathogens and either neutralize them or point them out to other immune system cells to be destroyed. The antibodies remain in the body even after the infection has been eliminated, which helps build immunity. If someone is exposed to the same infectious pathogens again, the antibodies can prevent illness or reduce its severity.
Immunization works by prompting the immune system to develop antibodies to various illnesses and diseases, which helps the immunized individual develop immunity. Immunization is achieved by administering vaccines containing inactive forms of specific diseases. The vaccine doesn’t cause illness since the material is inactive, but the immune system still recognizes the foreign pathogen and produces antibodies.
Immunization Schedules
At Hummingbird Pediatrics, we follow a structured immunization schedule to help keep your child protected as they grow. Newborns typically receive the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth or by two weeks of age. At 2, 4, and 6 months, infants receive a series of immunizations including Vaxelis (which covers DTaP, HIB, IPV, and Hepatitis B), PCV15 for pneumococcal protection, and Rotateq for rotavirus. A well visit occurs at 9 months with no vaccines. At 12 months, children receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Varicella (chickenpox), and the first dose of Hepatitis A. At 15 months, Pentacel (DTaP, HIB, IPV) and PCV15 are given, followed by the second dose of Hepatitis A at 18 months. Well visits continue at 24 and 30 months and at 3 years, without immunizations. At 4 years, children receive Quadracel (DTaP-IPV), along with MMR and Varicella boosters. From ages 5 through 10, well visits are recommended yearly, though no vaccines are typically needed. At 11 years, preteens receive Tdap, MCV (meningococcal), and optionally the HPV vaccine. Well visits at 12–15 years continue without vaccines unless catch-up immunizations are needed. Between 16 and 18 years, teens receive an MCV booster and optionally the Men B (Trumenba, given 6 months apart) and HPV vaccines.
Safety of Immunization
Immunization is extremely safe. All the vaccines used to help kids build immunity have undergone multiple years of rigorous testing to ensure they are safe and effective. Many vaccines are administered by injection, which can cause some discomfort. Additionally, some children might experience temporary redness, swelling, and soreness at the site where the vaccine was administered. These side effects are only temporary.