VACCINATIONS
STIKO recommends that children between the ages of 5 and 6 receive the first booster, providing comprehensive coverage against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. The period around school start is the perfect time to check the vaccination status
This booster is administered as a 3-in-1 vaccination, ensuring thorough protection for your child.
Additionally, to maintain lifelong immunity, it's essential to continue administering a second booster shot at ages 9-14 and then every 10 years thereafter.
While the vaccine is generally well-tolerated, it is common to experience mild side effects such as redness or swelling at the injection site, swollen lymph nodes, and general symptoms like shivering, tiredness, or gastrointestinal issues. A fever of 39°C is also possible, as well as upper respiratory tract infections. These side effects usually resolve within a few days.
It's understandable to have concerns about your child receiving vaccinations, but the benefits of protecting them against serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses far outweigh any temporary discomfort they may experience. Please don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccination process.
MORE DETAILS:
Diphtheria is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can affect the throat and skin. It is spread through droplets in the air and can cause serious complications like difficulty breathing, heart rhythm problems, and even organ damage. The symptoms of diphtheria can include a sweet smell, swelling in the throat that blocks the airway, and greasy skin and wounds if the infection affects the skin. Antiserum and antibiotics are needed to treat the infection and prevent further complications. Unfortunately, despite intensive medical treatment, around 5-10% of those infected with diphtheria still die.
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Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause painful muscle contractions and difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing. The tetanus bacteria can be found in soil and can enter the body through even small wounds. Symptoms of tetanus may include spasms of the facial muscles, difficulty opening the mouth, and spasms of the larynx and chest muscles that can lead to death by asphyxiation. Despite modern intensive care treatment, 10-20% of patients with tetanus still die, often due to difficulty breathing or heart failure. Tetanus is a global health concern and vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious infection. Even with early treatment, tetanus can be fatal.
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Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that is spread through bacteria in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is highly contagious and can affect all members of a household if they are not protected. Whooping cough can be a prolonged illness, lasting several weeks to months. It starts with flu-like symptoms that last about two weeks, followed by weeks of coughing fits that can lead to vomiting, especially at night. Recovery can take several more weeks. Infants are especially at risk for complications from whooping cough, with 15-20% of hospitalized patients (mostly unvaccinated young infants) developing pneumonia or otitis media. Coughing fits can also cause groin and rib fractures and can leave permanent damage to the lungs or bronchi.
It's important to take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from infectious diseases. Vaccines are an effective way to reduce the risk of infection and serious complications. If you have any questions or concerns don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider.
Resources:
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/diphtherie/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/keuchhusten-pertussis/
https://www.impfen-info.de/impfempfehlungen/fuer-jugendliche-12-17-jahre/tetanus-wundstarrkrampf/
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