Vaccines & Immunizations

Why does my child need immunizations?

Vaccines teach your child’s immune system to recognize and fight infections before they encounter the diseases themselves. They help protect against illnesses that can cause hospitalization, lasting health problems, or death. (healthychildren.org)

The recommended schedule provides protection at the ages children need it most. Receiving vaccines on time and completing the recommended doses helps maintain that protection throughout childhood and adolescence. (healthychildren.org)

What immunizations does my child need?

Your child’s recommended vaccines depend on their age, medical history, and previous vaccinations. Childhood immunizations protect against diseases such as:

• Measles, mumps, and rubella
• Polio
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough
• Hepatitis A and B
• Chickenpox
• Rotavirus
• Certain bacterial infections that can cause meningitis or pneumonia

Our team also reviews recommendations for influenza, COVID-19, and HPV vaccines. HPV vaccination helps prevent several cancers later in life, including cervical and throat cancers. (fda.gov, healthychildren.org)

At Valencia Pediatrics, we follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) immunization schedule and guidance from the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA). We review your child’s vaccination record, explain which vaccines are due, and develop an appropriate catch-up plan when doses have been missed.

If you are planning international travel, contact us well before departure. Your child may need additional vaccines or adjustments to the timing of routine doses based on your destination. (healthychildren.org)

Are vaccines safe for my child?

Recommended childhood vaccines have a strong record of safety and effectiveness. They undergo careful testing before approval and continued safety monitoring afterward. Most side effects are mild and temporary; serious reactions are rare. For most children, the benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks. (fda.gov)

Before vaccination, tell our team about previous vaccine reactions, known allergies, medical conditions, and medications. Most common allergies do not prevent vaccination. However, a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient may require avoiding that particular vaccine or obtaining specialist guidance. Certain immune system conditions can also affect which vaccines are appropriate. (cdc.gov)

We welcome your questions and will explain the benefits, possible risks, and recommendations for your child.

What are the side effects of immunizations?

Depending on the vaccine, common side effects may include:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling where the vaccine was given
• Mild fever
• Temporary tiredness or fussiness
• Decreased appetite

Most reactions improve within a few days, although the timing varies by vaccine. Our team can explain what to expect and how to help your child feel comfortable.

Contact our office if symptoms are worsening or concerning. Call 911 if your child develops difficulty breathing or swallowing, becomes unresponsive, or shows other signs of a life-threatening reaction. (healthychildren.org)

Our Vaccine Policy

At Valencia Pediatrics, vaccination is an essential part of protecting children, families, and our community. We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) childhood and adolescent immunization schedule.

The AAP schedule is endorsed by leading medical and health organizations, including:

• American Medical Association (AMA)
• American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
• Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (PIDS)
• National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP). (healthychildren.org)

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) also endorse the AAP schedule. (cdph.ca.gov)

Our practice bases its childhood vaccination recommendations on the AAP schedule and WCHA guidance, rather than the current CDC schedule. We are committed to recommendations grounded in scientific evidence, pediatric expertise, and children’s long-term health.

We welcome questions and respectful conversations about vaccine safety, benefits, and timing. We expect families to follow our practice’s vaccination requirements and do not offer alternative or intentionally delayed schedules for nonmedical reasons.

Children with a documented medical reason to delay or avoid a particular vaccine receive individualized recommendations. Families whose children have missed doses can work with our team on an appropriate catch-up plan.

Families who choose to decline vaccines required by our practice or continue nonmedical delays may be asked to establish care with another practice. Any transition will include appropriate notice and support for continuity of care.

To review your child’s vaccination record or schedule a visit, call or text Valencia Pediatrics.