Ask the VEC
- Two month well-child visit - Apr. 2013
- Multiple Doses of Vaccines - Mar. 2013
- Newborns and Unvaccinated Children - Feb. 2013
- HPV Q&A Page - Jan. 2013
Two-month well-child visit and vaccines
Q. My baby is going for her two-month well visit in a few weeks. What vaccines will be given and how can I prepare for the upcoming visit?
A. During your baby’s two-month well-child visit, she will likely receive vaccines to prevent diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b, rotavirus, pneumococcus, polio and hepatitis B. While this seems like a lot of shots, several of these may be offered as combination vaccines and the rotavirus vaccine is given orally.
You’re already getting prepared by finding out what to expect and learning about the vaccines and diseases they prevent. If you need additional information, check the “A Look at Each Vaccine" pages on our websites.
You should write down any questions you have for the doctor. If you are comfortable with your decision, your baby will respond to your mood and be more relaxed. You can also help your baby by bringing her favorite toy or blanket to the appointment. Some moms also find that holding or feeding the baby during shots helps the baby be more comfortable.
Learn more about preparing yourself and your baby for vaccines»
Learn more about vaccines due at other well visits»
Multiple doses of vaccines
Q. Why are multiple doses of vaccines necessary?
A. Vaccines can require multiple doses for a number of reasons. First, certain types of vaccines, such as those made with purified proteins or inactivated toxoids, provide more complete protection after a person receives more than one dose. Second, immune responses sometimes weaken, so additional doses may be necessary so that people can respond readily to invading viruses and bacteria.
Learn more about why some vaccines require multiple doses »
Newborns and unvaccinated children
Q. My friend is not having her children immunized. I am going to be having a baby soon. Is it safe to allow my baby to be around them?
A. Any time your baby is around other people, he or she could be exposed to viruses or bacteria. Because your friend’s children are not immunized, they will be more susceptible to the dangerous childhood illnesses that are commonly kept at bay because of high levels of immunization. Therefore, you may want to limit your baby’s exposure to these children, especially if they are ill.
As your baby is immunized, he or she will be less likely to get the diseases against which she was vaccinated. However, because vaccines don’t always afford complete protection, it will still be important to remain vigilant.
HPV Q&A Page
In recognition of “Cervical Cancer Awareness” month, this edition of “Ask the VEC” features the question and answer page from our Prevent HPV campaign.
Go to www.prevent-HPV.com to ask a question or see what others are asking about HPV and the vaccine.
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- Vaccine Education Center