Immunizations

Childhood vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)

Childhood vaccines protect kids from serious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella and more. Learn about vaccine schedules, safety and how to get your child the protection they need.

Regular childhood vaccines protect infants, toddlers and school-aged children from serious, sometimes life-threatening infectious diseases. Common vaccines in the routine schedule include:

  • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
  • DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
  • Polio
  • Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • Pneumococcal vaccines

Vaccines safely stimulate a child's immune system to recognize and fight specific germs, reducing the risk of severe illness and helping protect the community through herd immunity.

Why Vaccines Are Given
Vaccines lower the risk of hospitalization, long-term complications and death from preventable diseases. They are timed to provide protection when children are most vulnerable and help prevent outbreaks in schools and neighborhoods.

What to Expect During the Visit
At a vaccination appointment, our team:

  • Reviews your child's medical history
  • Checks current health and any allergies or previous vaccine reactions
  • Explains which vaccines are recommended

Vaccines may be given by injection or, in a few cases, by mouth. Sometimes more than one shot is given during a visit. These are safe to receive together according to the recommended schedule.

Common Side Effects and Aftercare
Most children tolerate vaccines well. Typical short-term reactions include:

  • Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site
  • Mild fever
  • Fussiness or decreased appetite

These usually resolve within a day or two. Comfort measures include cuddling, offering fluids or breastfeeding, using a cool compress and age-appropriate pain relief if recommended by your clinician.

When to Contact Your Clinician
Contact your clinician or seek prompt medical attention if your child has:

  • A high fever
  • Severe or unusual allergic reactions such as hives or difficulty breathing
  • Seizures or persistent vomiting
  • Ongoing or worsening symptoms after vaccination

Follow-Up and Records
Keep an up-to-date vaccination record and bring it to all appointments and school enrollment. Some vaccines require multiple doses or boosters. If your child has missed a scheduled vaccine, our clinicians can provide a catch-up schedule tailored to your child's age and medical history.

Support and Questions
We are here to provide safe, clear information. Our team can review your child's medical history, answer questions and help you make informed decisions together.

Are childhood vaccines safe?
Yes, vaccines recommended for children by TidalHealth are carefully tested for safety and effectiveness and are continuously monitored. Benefits far outweigh the small risks of side effects.

What side effects should I expect?
Most are mild and short-lived, such as soreness at the injection site, a low-grade fever or irritability. Serious side effects are very rare.

Do vaccines cause autism?
No credible scientific evidence shows a link between vaccines and autism. Large studies have found no connection.

Can my child receive multiple vaccines at once?
Yes, this is safe and effective. It ensures timely protection and reduces clinic visits.

What if my child is behind schedule on vaccines?
Our team can create a catch-up schedule. Many vaccines can be given later without starting the series over.

Are there children who should not get certain vaccines?
Some vaccines may not be recommended for children with specific health conditions, such as severe immune system problems. Tell your clinician about chronic conditions, medications, allergies or previous reactions.

How can I help reduce pain or anxiety during shots?
Comfort measures include holding or breastfeeding infants, distracting older children with toys or videos, using numbing creams when appropriate and providing praise afterwards.

Do vaccines contain harmful ingredients?
Ingredients are present in very small amounts and serve purposes such as preserving or stabilizing the vaccine. Research shows routine components are safe. Our team can review ingredients with you.

What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring your child's vaccination record, medical records, a list of current medications and any questions you may have. You may be asked to stay briefly after the vaccine for monitoring.

When should I call the clinic after vaccination?
Call if your child develops a high or lasting fever, signs of severe allergic reaction, high-pitched crying, unresponsiveness, seizures or other unexpected or persistent symptoms.