Immunizations

What kind of immunizations do children need?

Children need immunizations starting from birth. The standard immunization schedule recommends: 

• Hepatitis B
• Rotavirus
• Diphtheria, tetanus, & acellular pertussis
• Haemophilus influenzae type b 
• Pneumococcal conjugate
• Inactivated poliovirus
• Influenza 
• Measles, mumps, rubella
• Varicella
• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus, diphtheria, & acellular pertussis
• Human papillomavirus
• Meningococcal
• Meningococcal B
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide
  
  

Many of these immunizations require two or more doses, which occur at different intervals throughout your child’s first 18 years. 

How can I help my child with immunizations?

The Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics team welcomes parents to accompany and hold their children during vaccinations. A comforting, hug-like hold can prevent your child from moving their arms or legs while also helping them feel secure. 

You might also want to give your child a small taste of something sweet before the injections. Sweets can minimize the body’s pain response.

Bring a favorite toy or object, too. It can be a great distraction for your child, which can reduce your worry about their discomfort. 

If your child’s worried about pain, ask the team to apply numbing cream or spray ahead of the immunization. Between this and the very slim needles, the injection’s over before your child even realizes it.

What kind of immunizations do adults need?

Adults need immunizations according to their medical history, disease risk factors, and other individual factors. Some of the immunizations you may need as an adult include: 

• Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis
• Measles, mumps, rubella
• Varicella
• Zoster recombinant
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Pneumococcal conjugate
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Meningococcal A, C, W, Y
• Meningococcal B
• Haemophilus influenzae type b
  
  

The Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics team recommends the immunization schedule that best meets your needs at every stage of your life. 

Do immunizations cause side effects?

Serious side effects are not typical. Some children and adults might have mild symptoms after their immunizations, which can include: 

• Swelling at the injection site
• Redness at the injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Body aches
• Tiredness
  
  

If your side effects last more than a few days, reach out to the Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics team for guidance. 

Do I really need immunizations?

There may be some minor risks with immunizations, but the benefits far outweigh them. The Centers for Disease Control, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, and many other leading medical organizations recommend pediatric and adult immunizations.

Northern Virginia Internal Medicine and Pediatrics is here for all your immunization needs. Book an appointment online or call the office.