Immunization is one of the most important parts of children’s health. Understanding the various vaccines that your child needs is undoubtedly one of the most crucial aspects of being a parent.
Many first-time parents though can be overwhelmed by the amount of information about vaccines that they suddenly have to process. Part of the reason is that vaccine recommendations can change sometimes from generation to generation or as better versions are produced. This means parents can be unfamiliar with some of the mandated vaccines that their child needs.
This article serves as a quick introduction to the vaccines recommended by the Department of Health for Filipino children. Be sure also to check with your child’s pediatrician about the various details in order to learn more about the recommended vaccines.
Vaccines Immediately After Birth
Right after being born–90 minutes to be exact–a baby is given two vaccines. One is commonly known as BCG, which protects against tuberculosis. This vaccine is vital especially in areas with high incidence of tuberculosis. The other vaccine is the Hepa B vaccine, which protects against Hepatitis B.
Polio Vaccines
Polio is a serious disease that causes paralysis and death, but it is also a preventable disease thanks to vaccines. The Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is given in three doses, during the 6th, 10th, and 14th weeks after birth. In addition to the OPV, an Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is given also on the 14th week.
5-in-1
Another kind of vaccine given during the 6th, 10th, and 14th weeks after birth is the PENTA-DPT-HepB, Hib vaccine, commonly referred to locally as a “5-in-1 vaccine.” This vaccine protects against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (also known as whooping cough), Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b diseases.
Pneumonia Vaccines
For infants, the vaccine that protects against pneumonia is known as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine or PCV. This vaccine is also given in three doses in the 6th, 10th, and 14th weeks.
Rotavirus Vaccine
The Rotavirus Vaccine protects against rotaviruses, which cause severe diarrhea in children. This is given in two doses, at 6 weeks and 10 weeks.
JE Vaccine
The JE vaccine protects against viral encephalitis, which is often caused by the Japanese Encephalitis Virus. This vaccine has only one dose, given before the child is 8 months old.
MMR
The Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine, commonly known as MMR, is another staple in the recommended vaccines for infants. As the name states, the vaccine protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella, which are all serious but preventable diseases. This vaccine is given in two doses, the first during the 9th month and the other at 12 months.
MR
Apart from the protection against Measles and Rubella given by the MMR vaccine, additional protection is given by the MR vaccine. This serves as a booster for the initial protection against Measles and Rubella. It is given in two doses, the first one when the child is 5-6 years old, and the second at 11-12 years old.
Td Vaccine
If the MR vaccine boosts the initial protection against Measles and Rubella given by the MMR vaccine, the Td vaccine on the other hand boosts the initial protection against Tetanus and Diphtheria provided by the PENTA DPT-HepB, Hib vaccine. The Td vaccine is given in two doses, first when the child is 5-7 years old, and the second at 12-15 years old.
HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine is given to prevent cervical cancer in women. Females are given two doses when they are 9-10 years old. The doses are given six months apart.
Influenza Vaccine
The influenza vaccine or “flu shot” helps protect against different types of seasonal influenza. It is given annually.
Covid-19 Immunization
In addition to the DOH-recommended vaccines already mentioned, it is also worth noting that the DOH recommends children aged 5 years old and above to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
Vaccine Literacy
Knowing important information about the vaccines your child should receive is an important step in ensuring your child’s overall health. Vaccines not only protect your child against diseases, vaccines also protect the people around your child.
Vaccines are also often required in particular settings, such as in schools and other establishments. Getting your child vaccinated is important in getting access to these establishments.
This article provided basic information about the vaccines in the DOH’s immunization program. Your child’s pediatrician can give you more information about schedules, precautions, and contraindications regarding your child’s particular case.
