Vaccines teach our body to respond to infection. Just as studying for a test prepares us to perform better, getting a vaccine prepares our immune system to mount a better immune response.
According to UNICEF, in the last 50 years vaccines have saved 154 million lives. Vaccines undergo extensive testing to ensure they are safe and effective. Most childhood vaccines have been used for many years with significant improvements in child health.
While there is overwhelmingly positive scientific evidence for the efficacy and safety of vaccines, there are some common myths that can make parents worry.
Here are some of the common myths about vaccines:
Myth #1: Vaccines cause autism.
There was a study done in 1998 that found a link between the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism. These findings were later found to be false. Since then, studies have found no causal link between the MMR vaccine and autism. In fact, a review of over 138 studies covering 23 million children worldwide concluded that the MMR vaccine is safe, highly effective and has no link to autism.[1]
Myth #2: Vaccines make children sick.
Vaccines prevent complications and severe symptoms from common childhood viruses and bacteria. While some vaccines may cause symptoms that mimic disease (such as fever, muscle pain, etc), for the most part, the symptoms are very mild and resolve within 1-2 days. The fact that your child has these symptoms is evidence that the immune system is learning.
Myth #3: It is better for my child to just get the illness than receive the vaccine.
Vaccines present the body with versions of common viruses or bacteria that have been “toned-down” or deconstructed. The immune system can then build up its defenses without having to fight against the full-fledged infection. Vaccines are rigorously tested and evaluated to make sure that any side effects are less severe and less frequent than complications that arise from the infection itself.
You can read about more vaccine myths and why they are false here.
If you have any additional questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss with your pediatrician.
By Dr. Alexa Nicole Monroy
