Debunking Common Myths About Baby Vaccines

Vaccines have been around for centuries, saving lives and preventing serious diseases. But even today, many myths and misunderstandings about them exist. I meet many parents who worry about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. 

As a doctor, it's my responsibility to educate people on good health practices and dispel misinformation. So, let's look at some of the most common myths surrounding vaccines for babies and find the truth behind them.

Vaccines are vital in protecting your baby from diseases like measles, polio, whooping cough, etc. The National Immunisation Schedule (NIS) outlines when and which vaccines your baby should receive. Vaccines help your baby's body build immunity without causing the disease. This means your baby gets protection from harmful infections without going through the pain and risks of illness. 
 

One of the most persistent myths about baby vaccines is that they cause autism or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Fact:

• Numerous studies have shown that there is no link between vaccines and autism. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with no known single cause, and vaccines do not play a role in it.
• Similarly, it has also been proven that vaccines do not cause SIDS. SIDS is a tragic and poorly understood event, but there is no evidence linking it to vaccinations. Babies are at greater risk for SIDS if they sleep on their stomachs or are exposed to tobacco smoke. 

Many people worry about the ingredients in vaccines, thinking they might be harmful to their babies.

Fact:

Vaccines contain ingredients like preservatives and stabilisers to keep them effective and safe. They also include adjuvants, which help boost the immune system’s response. These are safe in the amounts used.

All vaccine ingredients are carefully tested for safety, and organisations like the WHO, NHS, and CDSCO ensure vaccines are safe before they are approved. 

Some believe recovering from a disease and gaining natural immunity is better than vaccinating. This belief stems from the idea that natural infection gives stronger and longer-lasting protection.

Fact:

The risks of severe complications from the disease far outweigh the benefits of natural immunity. The process of getting sick exposes babies to significant risks like severe complications, hospitalisation, or even death.

Vaccines mimic the infection process by introducing a harmless part of the germ (antigen) to train the immune system. This creates immunity without the risks of the actual disease. Research shows that vaccine-induced immunity is safer and more effective in preventing life-threatening illnesses like rubella, hepatitis B, and rotavirus. 

Many parents worry that giving their children several vaccines will overload their immune systems.

Fact:

Vaccines are carefully tested to ensure they are safe and effective for children. Health experts reassure that the recommended vaccines in the early years use only a small part of the immune system’s capacity, keeping it ready to fight other germs your baby encounters daily.

Some people believe that herd immunity – the idea that when enough people are vaccinated, it helps protect those who aren’t vaccinated – isn’t real.

Fact:

• Herd immunity is a proven concept that helps stop the spread of diseases, especially to people who can’t get vaccinated, such as newborn babies or those with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS.
• When many people are vaccinatedherd immunity decreases the chances of outbreaks, making the whole community safer. By vaccinating your baby, you not only protect them but also help protect others around you.

There are sometimes concerns about vaccination in India, but following the government-recommended baby vaccination schedule is essential.

The list of vaccines for babies in India includes important ones like:

• BCG (for tuberculosis)
• Polio
• Hepatitis B
• DTP (for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis)
• MMR (for measles, mumps, and rubella)
• Rotavirus (to prevent severe diarrhoea)
• Hepatitis A
• PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, to protect against pneumonia and meningitis)

In addition to the initial doses, booster doses are also crucial. They help maintain and strengthen immunity by:

1. Providing Long-term Protection: Boosters ensure immunity lasts and doesn’t fade over time.
2. Increasing the Immune Response: Boosters improve the body’s ability to fight diseases.
3. Preventing Outbreaks: Regular boosters help stop diseases from spreading.
4. Protecting Vulnerable Groups: Boosters keep babies, older people, and people with weakened immune systems safe.
    

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect your baby from life-threatening diseases. Despite the myths and misinformation, scientific research has consistently proven that vaccines are safe, necessary, and beneficial.

While mild side effects like fever or soreness may occur, they are temporary and far less risky than the diseases vaccines prevent. Stay informed and follow the National Immunisation Schedule. If you have concerns, always consult your doctor and vaccinate your child for a healthy future.