Tuberculosis (popularly known as “TB”) is a disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It mainly infects the lungs, although it also can affect other organs. When someone with untreated TB coughs or sneezes, the air is filled with droplets containing the bacteria. Inhaling these infected droplets is the usual way …
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Walking Pneumonia
During the school year, it can seem like kids pick up one bug after another. One week it’s a runny nose, the next a sore throat, or both. Most of the time, these bugs only last for about a week. But those that linger on for longer can sometimes turn …
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Whooping cough (pertussis) is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis (or B. pertussis). It mainly affects babies younger than 6 months old who aren’t yet protected by immunizations, and kids 11 to 18 years old whose immunity has started to fade. Whooping cough causes severe coughing …
Do My Kids Need Vaccines Before Traveling?
We’ll be taking a big family vacation in a couple of months. Do my kids need to get any special immunizations before we go? – Doriana If you plan to travel abroad or internationally it’s possible that your children — and you — will need additional vaccinations. Different countries have …
Frequently Asked Questions About Immunizations
Since the start of widespread vaccinations in the United States, cases of once common childhood illnesses like measles and diphtheria have dropped dramatically. Immunizations have protected millions of kids from dangerous diseases and saved thousands of lives. In fact, certain diseases crop up so rarely now that parents sometimes ask if …
How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?
My baby cries uncontrollably when she gets a shot. Is there anything I can do to make the experience less traumatic for her? – KateGetting shots can be tough on you and your child, but the benefits are worth the effort. Fortunately, you can do a few things to make …
Immunization Schedule
This schedule of recommended immunizations may vary depending upon where you live, your child’s health, the type of vaccine, and the vaccines available. Some of the vaccines may be given as part of a combination vaccine so that a child gets fewer shots. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines …
Is the Flu Vaccine a Good Idea for Your Family?
The flu vaccine is a good idea for all families. It does not cause the flu and it helps keep kids and parents from getting sick. Getting the flu is worse than having a cold and can make a person sick for a week or more. Babies younger than 6 months old …
Too Late for the Flu Vaccine?
Flu season runs from October to May, with most cases happening from late December to early March. But the flu vaccine is usually offered from September until mid-November. Getting vaccinated before the flu season is in full force gives the body a chance to build up immunity to (protection from) …
Vaccines & Antibiotics: A Safe Combo?
I’ve heard that children who are taking antibiotics for an illness — like an ear infection — should not get a vaccine at the same time. Is this true? – Ishani Not usually. For the vast majority of kids, taking antibiotics for a mild illness (like an ear infection) shouldn’t …