10 Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Every Child Should Be Protected Against

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of vaccination in safeguarding against viruses and diseases has become evident. Vaccines often serve as our primary defense, providing essential precautions against illnesses. With a significant impact on our health, some vaccines are administered shortly after childbirth to shield against potential adversities. Vaccine-preventable diseases can pose serious threats, potentially leading to hospitalization if left unchecked. Building immunity and maintaining good health are effective measures against various health disorders, many of which can be prevented through vaccination. Today, we will highlight some of these preventable diseases.

What is the mechanism behind disease prevention through vaccines

We interviewed Dr. Sumeet Nigam, a General Physician at Sahara Hospital in Lucknow, to gain insight into vaccine-preventable diseases. According to Dr. Nigam, vaccines serve as immune boosters, fortifying the body’s natural defenses against diseases. Typically, when pathogens invade the body, they initiate an attack on bacteria and viruses. Left unchecked, these pathogens can proliferate, leading to widespread illness and potentially requiring hospitalization. Vaccines are administered for diseases with severe consequences if left untreated.

Through vaccination, the body mimics the response it would have to a real infection, thereby mitigating the effects of disease or viral attack. Children are particularly vulnerable to many diseases, making vaccination crucial for their protection. While minor symptoms may arise post-vaccination, the long-term benefits outweigh these temporary discomforts. The critical role of vaccines in combating the COVID-19 pandemic serves as a prime example of their life-saving potential.

Diseases that can be prevented by vaccines

1. Polio

Given its contagious nature and the significant number of infections recorded over recent decades, polio vaccination is deemed essential, particularly at an early age. Polio is typically contracted through contact with the stool of an infected individual and can swiftly spread to others within a span of 1-2 weeks. The symptoms of polio manifest gradually and can result in lifelong paralysis or deformity in those afflicted by the disease. Moreover, polio has the potential to contaminate food and water sources if proper hand hygiene is not observed, leading to potentially fatal complications.

To combat the spread of polio, the Inactivated Poliovirus (IPV) vaccine is available, providing protection against polio and its associated conditions, thereby safeguarding children from its debilitating effects.

2. Tetanus

Tetanus is not contagious, but it poses a serious threat to health as it behaves like a toxin in the body. Infection with tetanus bacteria leads to painful muscle stiffness and can result in life-threatening complications. This condition arises from exposure to the bacteria commonly found in soil. Any cut, injury, or open wound increases the risk of tetanus infection. Symptoms can include muscle spasms, paralysis, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, infection can occur through burns or animal bites.

Vaccination against tetanus is essential to protect children from the agonizing effects of tetanus infection, particularly following an injury.

3. Influenza Flu

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a widespread infection that affects a majority of the population. It targets the lungs, throat, and nose, causing respiratory illness. Due to its contagious nature, the flu can spread easily among individuals, particularly affecting those with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. Individuals with conditions such as asthma and diabetes are also at higher risk of contracting the flu. It is imperative to prioritize flu vaccination from an early age to prevent both children and adults from falling ill with influenza. Additionally, receiving the flu vaccine can reduce the likelihood of contracting other infections and viruses. The flu spreads through respiratory droplets expelled from the mouth, nose, and eyes, as well as through contact with contaminated objects. Therefore, practicing good hygiene and receiving the flu vaccine are important preventive measures. measures such as vaccination.

4. Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a contagious liver disease primarily caused by acute infection. Those afflicted with hepatitis B may experience severe complications such as liver cancer and other health issues. Fortunately, vaccines for hepatitis B are readily available, serving as crucial tools in controlling this serious infection and bolstering overall health. Vaccination against hepatitis B not only prevents the onset of severe liver diseases but also reduces the risk of developing cancer associated with this virus.

5. Measles

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness characterized by fever and a distinctive rash covering the body. It poses particularly severe risks for babies and young children, potentially leading to life-threatening complications such as pneumonia and deafness. Given the serious consequences of measles infection, prevention is crucial from an early stage. The most effective method of protection against measles is through vaccination, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, which provides immunity against multiple strains of the virus and mitigates the risk of severe illness.

6. Mumps

Mumps is another contagious viral infection, typically spread through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms of mumps usually manifest within a few days of infection and can escalate rapidly. If left unchecked, mumps can result in serious complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, or deafness. Fortunately, vaccination against mumps is available, providing effective protection against the disease and reducing the severity of symptoms. Administering the mumps vaccine to your child can safeguard them from experiencing symptoms like fever and swollen glands under the ears and jaw.

7. Chicken Pox

Chickenpox is a highly prevalent health issue, infecting thousands of individuals annually. Characterized by fever and itchy rashes covering the entire body, chickenpox can pose serious complications, particularly in infants, and may weaken the immune system in adults. This blister-inducing disease spreads easily through coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with infected blisters. Consequently, isolation measures are necessary to prevent transmission to others. Vaccination against chickenpox is imperative from an early age to shield individuals from potential adversities associated with the disease.

8. COVID-19

Let’s not overlook COVID-19 in our discussion. It’s a severe respiratory infection associated with a range of symptoms including fever, cough, body aches, and shortness of breath, among others. The havoc caused by this disease and its ongoing variants continue to affect thousands daily, underscoring the critical importance of precautionary measures. COVID-19 is highly contagious and can linger on surfaces for extended periods, putting anyone who comes into contact with the virus at risk. The infection can lead to life-threatening complications, emphasizing the absolute necessity of vaccination. Protection against the coronavirus is achievable through the administration of two doses of vaccines specifically developed to combat this deadly virus.

9. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a significant liver disease caused by a virus, though it is not as contagious as hepatitis B. Children infected with hepatitis A may not exhibit many symptoms, yet they can still transmit the virus to others if they are unvaccinated. Typically, caregivers, parents, and individuals in close contact are more susceptible to contracting this infection. Hepatitis A vaccination offers protection against potential complications and severe illness. Administering the vaccine to children can prevent them from falling ill with hepatitis A. Failure to receive the vaccine may lead to adverse symptoms later in life as they transition into adulthood.

10. Diphtheria

Diphtheria, a contagious disease caused by bacteria, can produce toxins harmful to the body. While it may be less well-known, it can have severe and life-threatening consequences. Diphtheria can impact the heart, leading to abnormal heart rhythms and potentially heart failure. Furthermore, the disease can result in temporary or permanent paralysis, significantly affecting an individual’s quality of life. Vaccination against diphtheria is therefore essential in preventing health issues and severe complications. The DTap vaccine is available to protect children from the formation of a thick coating in the nose and blockage in the throat’s air passage. Additionally, diphtheria vaccination can prevent difficulties in swallowing or breathing.