Immunizations
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and the CDC recommend all children receive vaccines according to the recommended immunization schedule to protect them from 14 different diseases by age two.
Most parents choose to vaccinate their children according to the schedule recommended but many parents may still have questions about the vaccines for their child. It is natural to have questions and we encourage you to talk to your child’s doctor and express your concerns about vaccines for your child. Your child’s doctor will listen and can answer questions about vaccine safety, side-effects, benefits and risks, when to schedule them and more.
Recommended Immunization Schedules
Click the links below to view the recommended ages for routine administration of vaccines for children. Any dose not given at the recommended age should be given during a subsequent visit when indicated and possible.
Children enrolled in Alaska schools must be immunized against:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTap/DT/Td/Tdap)
- Polio
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (Chicken pox) through 6th grade
- Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) – under age 5 years only
For more information about vaccine requirements for children enrolled in Alaska schools visit the State of Alaska’s Back-to-School web page.
Have concerns about vaccine safety?
Learn about the journey of a childhood vaccine’s development from lab testing through safety monitoring. This video explains the three phases of clinical trials, vaccine licensing and manufacturing, how a vaccine is added to the U.S. recommended immunization schedule, and how FDA and CDC continue to monitor vaccine safety after the public begins using the vaccine.
Who is at highest risk? Our infants, elders and those with impaired immune systems due to conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and cancer to name a few. Continued attention to keeping vaccinations up to date is vital to ensuring a healthy community.
If you choose not to vaccinate your child, understand the risks and responsibilities.
Vaccination: “An act of love and protection for our communities.”
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions view this Vaccine FAQs from the CDC, AAP and AAFP.
Pediatric Care at Sunshine
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