Ask the Expert Series: Why Childhood immunisations are important?

Hello everyone! Excited to “see” you! I am Dr. Katrina Heng, Medical Doctor, Pediatrics (Doctor Anywhere). Together with the team at TheAsianParent, we have addressed your concerns regarding your kid's immunisations. ---------------------------- Here are some questions asked in our community, and we got the answers for you ✅ 👩‍💼Can my baby have a vaccine when he has a cold or cough? Do I need to delay the vaccine till he gets well? 👩‍🔬There are instances that would warrant a delay in your child’s vaccination, which will be discussed with you prior to your child’s vaccination or on the day of vaccination. Take for example, an ongoing high fever would be such an instance. I recommend discussing your concerns with your nurse or doctor before coming to a decision together. I hope this helps address your concerns 👩‍💼What are the critical immunizations if we are unable to get every immunization? 👩‍🔬Dear mummy, if you are referring to optional immunizations that could prevent critical illness; this would depend on the exposure risks. For example; if you are planning to travel to a country that is endemic to Measles. Instead of waiting for the vaccination when your child is 12months old, you could discuss your concerns with your family doctor, who would be able to advise you accordingly. There are immunizations against diseases endemic to countries that may be applicable to you and your child, prior to your travels, which can be addressed by your family doctor. In Singapore, most children are recommended to follow the National Childhood Immunization Schedule (NCIS) to protect them against preventable diseases as early and safe as possible. I hope this helps address your concerns. 👩‍💼What are the risk factors if we fail to give immunisations on the date? 👩‍🔬Risk factors inevitably increases one’s chance and risk of catching the illness. By adhering to your child’s immunization schedule, it helps reduce the chance of catching a preventable disease. A few of the preventable diseases have undesireable long term medical consequences, which could be avoided. A good amount of data and research has been put into the planning of these schedules, to protect your child and the community they live in. However, vaccines are not always 100% effective for all children due to various reasons. I would still strongly recommend parents to follow the immunization schedule, as one cannot anticipate unforeseen circumstances that may cause deviations from your child’s immunization schedule. I hope this helps address your concerns.