Maternal health, lifestyle, environmental factors, maternal age, and other physical factors influence the outcomes of the pregnancy. But the most concerning thing is that most mothers hesitate to vaccinate their premature or low birth weight babies. This fear usually comes from love, protection, not misinformation alone. Vaccination is the safest way to prevent a premature or low birth weight child. But why?
Mother,
Your child is small, but that doesn’t mean they are too weak for vaccines. In fact, they need protection more than a normally born baby.
Children born before 37 weeks or weighing less than 2.5 kg are vulnerable to infection and chronic diseases. Their immune system is not fully developed, has immature skin barriers, and, most crucially, maternal antibodies are missing. The most shocking fact is-
- Children born before 39 weeks have 12% of higher chances of Hospitalization.
- Every 500g reduction in weight increases the risk by 19%.
So, tell me, don’t you think your child deserves to get vaccinated on time, so these risks can be reduced?
This article will help you know whether vaccination for premature and low birth weight babies is safe or not. Let’s start with myths and facts.
Myths / Facts
Myth 1: They are too weak for vaccines or need to be given at a specific age.
Fact: The The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), a health authority, has recommended the following standard for the vaccination schedule similar to full-term infants, following chronological age, not gestational age. Delaying vaccination increases the risk of preventable diseases and infections.
Myth 2: They might have side effects.
Fact: Mild fever, swelling, irritation, and slight redness in that area are usual and temporary symptoms and happen to every child after vaccination. Their body is fighting against the vaccine, which mimics the function of infection or disease.
Myth 3: Parents should wait until they gain weight.
Fact: You might be aware that pneumonia commonly occurs in most children after they are born. And it is also the single largest infectious causing death of babies. Waiting only increases the risk of measles, pertussis, and pneumonia.
Myth 4: The vaccine might overload the baby’s immune system.
Fact: Remember that, since birth, a baby’s body is tackling thousands of germs daily, and only vaccines help to build protection against them.
Why do they need more protection than other children?
- Immature immune system- as they are unable to develop a fully functional system, their immature immune system is not able to develop full maturity to defend their body for diseases.
- Higher disease severity- since their birth, several infections started to roam around them, and some, like pertussis, influenza, and pneumococcal, can lead to complications like hospitalization or even death.
- Maternal antibodies are missing- maternal antibodies are transferred to the child during the third trimester through the placenta. But if early delivery or premature interruption of transfer occurs, babies have a low level of protective antibodies.
- Fragile body- their gastrointestinal and respiratory tract are thinner and more permeable, which allows pathogens to invade their body more easily.
Does vaccination work well on preterm and LWB babies?
Yes, it works similarly to normally born babies. Following the vaccination schedule as per the chronological age schedule builds a great foundation that will protect them from long-term health diseases. But there are some things that you need to understand-
- Never miss your child’s vaccination- as a parent, it is your responsibility to understand that your baby needs immunization too, and it needs vaccination. As per the health of the baby, peadiatrician can recommend the accurate dose.
- Timing- don’t fall for myths that once your child is healthy, then only their body is ready for vaccination. Instead, start following the routine of vaccination as per the defined pattern. Vaccination should not be avoided because of prematurity or low birth weight.
- Expert guidance is necessary- make sure to convey all your fears to the doctor, so that they can explain to you every possibility. Cradle Children’s Hospital understands the curiosity of new parents, so providing accurate information is our top priority.
Conclusion
Yes, it is completely safe. Always follow the vaccination schedule, and make sure to talk to your health professional. The first year of their life is very crucial to building a great foundation for their immune system. In this journey, vaccination plays a critical role, and skipping it can impact their body negatively.
With Cradle Children’s Hospital, you can access the most comprehensive and child-friendly vaccination services in Jaipur. Together, we ensure to give them a healthy, strong, and protective life.
Book your consultation today!
Because when it comes to our child, tomorrow is never the choice!
FAQ’s
Are these vaccination are safe for my preterm or low birth weight child?
Yes, it is completely safe, as these vaccines are designed to keep child proected from disease and drive in the body without any side-effects.
Can multiple vaccines be given to the child?
Obviously yes. It can be given to babies simultaneously, following the same schedule. You have to make sure that you talk to the expert thoroughly.
What are considered as milf side-effects?
Mild fever, pain around the injected area, and slight redness are common. Make sure to feed your baby in intervals. But if you notice anything unsual then don’t delay in taking your child to the doctor.
Is vaccination still given if my child is in NICU?
Vaccination begins in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), but after the baby is stable. Sometimes, doctors delay the oral vaccine and give it once they are discharged.
What do I need to do to protect my baby further?
Coccon is one of the best methods. As per this method, all the family members need to be vaccinated so that they can create a protective barrier around their baby, and not pass any infection or disease.
