Childhood Vaccination: Myths vs Facts

❌ Myth 1: Vaccines cause autism

✅ Fact: Extensive research has shown no link between vaccines (including MMR) and autism. The original claim was based on a fraudulent study that has been debunked.

❌ Myth 2: Children don’t need vaccines for diseases that are rare now

✅ Fact: Diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria are rare because of vaccines. If vaccination rates drop, these diseases can come back quickly.

❌ Myth 3: Natural immunity is better than vaccine immunity

✅ Fact: While natural infection can provide immunity, it comes with serious risks—like brain damage from measles or paralysis from polio. Vaccines give safe protection without life-threatening complications.

❌ Myth 4: Too many vaccines overwhelm a child’s immune system

✅ Fact: A child’s immune system encounters thousands of antigens daily from food, air, and environment. The small amount from vaccines is safe and does not weaken immunity.

❌ Myth 5: Vaccines contain dangerous toxins

✅ Fact: Ingredients like aluminum or formaldehyde are used in tiny, safe amounts—much less than what we naturally consume in food or environment. They make vaccines effective and safe.

❌ Myth 6: Vaccines aren’t necessary if other children are vaccinated

✅ Fact: This is risky. Herd immunity only works when most children are vaccinated. Unvaccinated kids remain at risk and can spread disease to babies, elderly, or those with weak immunity.

❌ Myth 7: Vaccines always cause severe side effects

✅ Fact: Most side effects are mild (fever, soreness). Severe reactions are extremely rare. The risks from diseases are far greater than from vaccines.

❌ Myth 8: Vaccines can affect ones fertility

✅ Fact: None of the vaccine can affect ones fertility especially polio.

👉 Bottom line: Childhood vaccines are safe, effective, and lifesaving. They protect not just your child but the whole community.

Consult with Our Specialist Pediatrician