Helping protect your child today and as they grow.

Vaccines are an important part of preventive healthcare for children and adolescents. They help your child’s immune system learn how to protect against certain serious illnesses before your child is exposed to them.

At Eastern Iowa Health Center, our Pediatrics team works with parents and caregivers to help keep children’s immunizations on track from infancy through the teenage years. We’ll review your child’s immunization history, explain which vaccines may be recommended and give you an opportunity to ask questions.

Why Are Childhood Vaccinations Important?

Vaccines help protect your child against diseases that can cause serious illness and complications. Staying up to date also helps protect other people in your family and community, including babies and people who may be more vulnerable to certain infections.

Your child’s vaccine needs can vary depending on their age, health history, previous vaccinations and other factors. Your healthcare provider can help you understand what is recommended for your child.

What Vaccines Does My Child Need?

Children receive different vaccines as they grow. Some are given as a series of doses to build and maintain protection, while others may be recommended at particular ages or during certain seasons.

Use the guide to learn more about vaccines your child may receive at different stages of childhood.

Is Your Child Behind on Vaccines?

It happens. A move, illness, missed appointment or busy season of life can make it easy to fall behind.

In many cases, children who are behind on recommended immunizations can follow a catch-up vaccination schedule. A vaccine series generally does not need to be started over simply because more time than recommended has passed between doses.

Bring your child’s available vaccination records to their appointment, and our healthcare team can review them with you and help determine what your child may need.

Have Questions About Vaccines?

It’s okay to have questions about your child’s healthcare.

If you have questions about a vaccine, possible side effects or what is recommended for your child, talk with your healthcare provider. Our Pediatrics team can explain the benefits and potential risks and help you make informed decisions about your child’s care.

Preparing for Your Child’s Appointment

If you have vaccination records from another healthcare provider, school, state or country, bring them with you if possible. Having your child’s previous records can help your healthcare team determine which vaccinations have already been received and what may be needed next.

You can also write down any questions you have ahead of the visit so you can discuss them with your child’s provider.

Keep Your Child’s Vaccinations on Track

Regular well-child visits are a great opportunity to review your child’s immunization history, discuss recommended vaccines and ask questions about their overall health and development.