VACCINATIONS

Most asked questions about vaccinations

Why are vaccinations necessary?

Daily Exposure to Pathogens & Disease Prevention: We encounter numerous bacteria and viruses daily, and vaccinations provide a defense against potential health threats. Vaccinations protect individuals from severe and life-threatening diseases caused by bacteria and viruses.
Community Protection & Collective Responsibility: Vaccination is a collective effort, not just for personal protection but for the well-being of the entire community. It contributes to the concept of "herd immunity," preventing the widespread transmission of diseases within the population.
Cocoon Strategy for Infants & Shielding Vulnerable Individuals: Herd immunity is crucial for safeguarding individuals who cannot be vaccinated, it forms a protective cocoon around.

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How do I get my child vaccinated?

schedule an appointment with your paediatrician and
bring your child's vaccination records, which should be translated into German or English if possible.
The paediatrician/nurse will review the records and create a German vaccination booklet if you don't have one, and advise on any additional vaccinations recommended by the STIKO (Standing Committee on Vaccination).
You can decide which vaccinations to administer to your child, except for the measles vaccination, which is mandatory for daycare attendance.

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What if my child misses a vaccine dose?

Don't worry if your child has missed any vaccinations, they can catch up on them until age 18.

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What does it cost?

If you have a German health insurance card from the statutory health insurance, you can receive recommended vaccines at no additional cost.
If you are privately insured, it's a good idea to check your contract to see if vaccines are covered.
If you don't have a German health insurance card, you can still receive vaccines from certain offices or if you pay it yourself.

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Are vaccines safe?

There is a safety system in place for monitoring vaccine reactions. If there’s any suspicion of an unusual reaction, it’s carefully reviewed and followed up through regulated reporting channels. Your doctor will report any concerns to health authorities, who then pass the information on to the Paul-Ehrlich-Institute (PEI). As Germany’s central health authority, the PEI reviews and evaluates these reports based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) international standards. This system ensures that potential vaccine reactions are carefully examined and high safety standards are maintained.

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What are the common side effects of vaccines?

After your child gets vaccinated, it's important to pay attention to their well-being. Your doctor will provide you with information about the possible side effects and when they might occur.
Remember, it's completely normal for your child to experience some mild side effects, such as redness or swelling at the injection site, fever, restless sleep, or even gastrointestinal issues. Don't worry too much, as these reactions usually fade away on their own within a day or two.
While most reactions are generally mild, it's crucial to remain aware that there is a small chance your child may experience something more moderate or severe.
If you notice any unusual symptoms like an allergic reaction, high fever, weakness, or changes in behavior, please don't hesitate to seek medical attention. By seeking medical treatment promptly, you'll ensure that your child receives the necessary care they need.

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What is the difference between live vaccines and inactivated vaccines?

Live vaccines are made up of weakened pathogens that are no longer capable of causing a disease.
In contrast, inactivated vaccines contain pathogens that are no longer active, but still stimulate the immune system to produce a response.
Most vaccines in use today are inactivated vaccines.

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Why do we use combination vaccines?

Combination vaccines are a great way to protect your child against multiple infectious diseases at the same time.
Instead of having to get multiple injections, your child can receive a combination vaccine that covers several diseases, followed by a booster later on. This helps to minimize the number of injections your child has to endure.
It's important to note that even very young children's immune systems are capable of handling combination vaccines.
And today's vaccines contain significantly lower doses of pathogens or antigens, so they are very safe and effective.

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Is there an alternative to vaccinations?

Unfortunatelly not. Vaccinations stand as a tried-and-true method, widely recognized for their effectiveness in preventing and controlling infectious diseases. It's like a shield for your child's immune system. They work by training the body to recognize and fight specific threats, providing a powerful defense against targeted diseases. It's crucial to note that while lifestyle changes and herbal remedies have their place in promoting health, they do not offer the comprehensive protection that vaccines do.
Even if your child seems to have a robust immune system, certain diseases out there can pose serious threats. Vaccinations act as a safeguard, offering added protection that our natural defenses might not provide.
We encourage you to reach out to healthcare professionals for any specific concerns or questions you may have about vaccinations. They can provide personalized guidance based on your child's unique health needs.

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What happens if I don't want to vaccinat my child?

In Germany, in contrast to many other European countries, most childhood vaccinations are voluntary, with the exception of measles, which is mandatory for children attending kindergarten or daycare.
If you decide not to vaccinate your child, your pediatrician's practice may have specific protocols to follow. For instance, your child might be asked not to enter the practice if they exhibit certain symptoms to ensure the safety of other patients. In such instances, the doctor may briefly step outside to assess the situation and provide approval. Alternatively, if the practice has this provision, you may be guided through the process via the isolation room.

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