Pediatrician Eleanor Watson, M.D.:
Advocate for immunizing infants and children

Eleanor Watson, M.D., of Meridian Pediatric Associates, is a strong advocate for childhood vaccinations. After all, disease prevention is the key to public health.

Modern technology and the discovery of many effective childhood vaccinations have substantially lowered the rates of many once deadline childhood diseases, like whooping cough and mumps. But, bacteria and viruses that cause these dated diseases are still round the U.S. and globally. Innovative breakthroughs are under research, and some in clinical trials. Still, childhood vaccinations remain high on the priority list of staying healthy.

How A Vaccine Works:

Vaccines prepare a child’s body to fight illness, notes Dr. Watson. Each immunization contains either a dead or weakened germ, or parts of the germ that cause a particular disease. Examples include chicken pox and measles. When exposed to this foreign germ, the body practices fighting the disease by producing antibodies. Antibodies can be thought of as the body’s army. Antibodies are proteins in the bloodstream, detecting and destroying invaders like bacteria and viruses.

This response to immunization is like a trial run. Once vaccinated, and exposed to the actual disease, the body is prepared to prevent or lessen the likelihood the individual will contract the virus and get sick.

Why are children susceptible?

"Children are highly susceptible for a number of reasons, "says Dr. Watson. "First, children have experienced limited exposure to disease. Vaccinations allow their bodies’ the time necessary to build a strong immunologic defense system, required to find off certain diseases. A second factor is the environment.

"Between the pre-school sandbox and the elementary school cafeteria, germs are everywhere. Children pass infections around, take them home, and pass them on to siblings and parents, causing a difficult cycle to break. One last basis of susceptibility is lack of good hygiene. It is important to help children learn to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, and then wash their hands.

"Importance of vaccinations:

Vaccines prevent disease in those who receive them, and protect those who come in contact with unvaccinated individuals.

The first immunization administered is Hepatitis B at birth. It is important to keep your child up-to-date on the immunization schedules listed below, adds Dr. Watson.

Suggestions to make vaccinations a good experience:

• If the child is older, notes Dr. Watson, tell them about the vaccinations they are getting them and how they will be helpful. Let them know what to expect upon vaccination, and what to expect one or two days after vaccination.
• Do something to take their mind off the actual shot.
• Plan a fun event to do with your child after their doctor’s visit: a park visit, stopping for ice cream, picking out a book to read at the library.

The Centers for Disease Control immunization schedule links are below:

Vaccines for Teens and College Students