Dangerous Shots - Connecting with Kids

Dangerous Shots

By the age of 17, an average person has received more than 21 shots. Though immunization has proven effective for preventing many illnesses, it may be inviting others.

Amber, 16, has never been a fan of shots, “I just remember from the time I was probably three or four, I always hated shots.” Concerned parents are looking deeper into the pains of shots.

In recent months, some internet chat sites have featured exaggerated stories of unsafe, or unnecessary shots. It is not all gossip though. There is some truth fueling the fiction. During the past year two vaccines, Hepatitis B and Oral Polio have come under fire for potentially dangerous side effects, and another has already been recalled.

“There were 12 reported cases of bowel obstruction in babies who received a vaccine called rotavirus vaccine and as pediatricians we take this very seriously,” said Dr. Karen Dewling.

Though these side effects are concerning, they can’t be compared to the ravages of the diseases they prevent, doctors advise. It is important for parents to be aware of the possible side effects and, feel comfortable discussing these matters with their child’s pediatrician.

"There were 12 reported cases of bowel obstruction in babies who received a vaccine called rotavirus vaccine and as pediatricians we take this very seriously.”

--Dr. Karen Dewling, Pediatrician

To Fret or Not to Fret

Serious Side-Effects

Serious allergic reaction
Long seizures
Decreased consciousness or coma

Common Side-Effects

Soreness, redness, swelling where the shot was given
Rash 1-2 weeks after shot
Pain or stiffness in joints

What Parents Should Know

In response to growing concerns regarding the correlation between vaccines and serious injury, Congress passed the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act.

The Act, passed in 1986, encompasses the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, which aims to compensate those who suffer from a vaccine related death or injury, and the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).

VAERS is a tracking system used by medical professionals and organizations to keep up with the numbers and types of vaccine related illnesses and deaths. The reports are published monthly and reviewed by the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.

Of the reported incidents, 85% are minor such as fever and redness of the injected area. The remaining 15% are more serious and are the primary concern of the Center. These effects include seizures, illnesses requiring hospitalization and even deaths.

Since multiple factors are present and more than one vaccine is often injected at a time, is difficult to attribute a specific vaccine with a specific side effect.

What Have They Done for Us Lately?

Though there is some discussion regarding side-effects and illnesses related to vaccines, they have stopped many serious epidemics.

The number of polio instances, previously averaging 13,000 to 20,000 per year, has dropped to 3,500 cases since immunization began. Prior to measles vaccinations nearly every American contracted the disease. An estimated 2.7 million measles-related deaths would occur globally without immunization.

Vaccines are essential in keeping people healthy , but an awareness of vaccine related illnesses could prove beneficial should your child develop symptoms.

Resources
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research http://www.fda.gov/cber/vaers/	For more information on parenting issues contact us: Connecting with Kids