The 25th annual National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) took place from April 27 to May 4, 2019. But, while this year’s National Infant Immunization Week may be over, the resources used to promote immunization safety during NIIW are available year-round, and they provide useful information for parents and health care providers.
After the Shots . . . What to Do if Your Child has Discomfort
This tip sheet from the Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) includes a checklist for parents to identify potential symptoms of communicable diseases and vaccine-related illnesses and injuries. It provides tips parents can follow if their child has a fever or has been acting “fussy” since being immunized, and it includes tables for proper dosages of acetaminophen and ibuprofen. It also reminds parents to, “[a]sk your healthcare provider or pharmacist which medicine is best for your child.”
Hepatitis A and B: Questions and Answers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend vaccination against hepatitis A and B during infancy. These Q&A documents from the IAC provide parents with information about how these diseases are spread, the benefits and risks of vaccination, how to identify symptoms, and what to do if you are concerned that your child may have hepatitis A or B.
Immunizations for Babies
This simple one-page chart from the IAC lists all of the CDC-recommended vaccinations for children from birth through 12 months of age. It also provides the recommendation to, “[c]heck with your doctor or nurse to make sure your baby is receiving all vaccinations on schedule. . . . Be sure you ask for a record card with the dates of your baby’s vaccinations; bring this with you to every visit.”
Resources for Professionals
The CDC’s website contains a wealth of free information for health care professionals who administer vaccinations to infants and young children. From how to talk to parents about vaccinations to how to properly administer childhood vaccines, these resources touch on all major aspects of infant immunization:
- Provider Resources for Vaccine Conversations with Parents
- Talking with Parents about Vaccines for Infants
Resources for Parents
The CDC offers a variety of free resources for parents as well. These resources include childhood vaccination data, information parents can share with friends and family online, and informational videos that they can watch with their children.
NIIW Digital Media Toolkit
The CDC’s NIIW Digital Medial Toolkit provides additional shareable resources for health care providers, parents and educators. Materials are available in English and Spanish, and range from infographics to professional presentations.
Speak with a National Vaccine Attorney for Free
While all CDC-recommended vaccinations are considered safe for most children, all vaccines carry the risk for certain injuries and illnesses. If your child has been diagnosed with a vaccine-related injury or illness, you can call 202-775-9200 or contact us online for a free consultation about your family’s legal rights under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).