Diseases You Almost Forgot About (Thanks to Vaccines)

 

5. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A

The Hepatitis A vaccine was developed in 1995 and since then has cut the number of cases dramatically in the United States. Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease and is transmitted through person-to-person contact or through contaminated food and water. Vaccinating against hepatitis A is a good way to help your baby stay Hep A-free and healthy!

When to vaccinate against hepatitis A

Doctors recommend that your child get two doses of the hepatitis A vaccine. Your child will need one dose at each of the following ages:

  • 12-23 months
  • 6 months after last dose

6. Rubella

Rubella

Rubella is spread by coughing and sneezing. It is especially dangerous for a pregnant woman and her developing baby. If an unvaccinated pregnant woman gets infected with rubella, she can have a miscarriage or her baby could die just after birth. Also, she can pass the disease to her developing baby who can develop serious birth defects. Make sure you and your child are protected from rubella by getting vaccinated on schedule.

When to vaccinate against rubella

Doctors recommend that your child get two shots of the MMR vaccine. Your child should get one dose at each of the following ages:

  • 12-23 months
  • 4-6 years