About Childhood Immunisations
The Importance of Timely Childhood Immunisations: DTP and MMR
Vaccines are a crucial part of your child’s health care. They are the safest and most effective way to protect your little ones from a range of harmful and potentially fatal diseases. Two of the most important vaccines in the immunisation schedule are the Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP) vaccine, and the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Ensuring your child receives these vaccinations at the correct ages is vital.
The DTP Vaccine
The DTP vaccine is one of the first lines of defence for your child. It provides protection against three serious diseases: diphtheria, a respiratory infection; tetanus, a nerve disease; and pertussis, also known as whooping cough. For maximum effectiveness, it's recommended that a child receives their 3rd dose of DTP vaccine before they reach 8 months of age.
This is because young babies are at the highest risk of developing severe symptoms and complications from these diseases. The 3rd dose helps strengthen their immunity, reducing their vulnerability. If missed, it could leave your child exposed during a period where they're most at risk.
The MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine shields against three other severe diseases: measles, a viral respiratory illness; mumps, a viral infection affecting the salivary glands; and rubella, also known as German measles, which can cause severe complications during pregnancy.
A child's immune system is not fully developed until they are several years old, which is why they need the MMR vaccine between 12 and 18 months. This age range represents a critical period when the child's natural immunity, inherited from the mother, starts to decrease, and their own immune system is yet to fully develop.
Reinforcing Doses: DTP and MMR
Beyond these initial doses, reinforcement is crucial to maintain immunity. This is why a reinforcing dose of DTP (in the form of DTaP/IPV) and at least 2 doses of MMR are recommended for children who have reached 5 years old in the previous 12 months.
The reinforcing DTP/IPV dose consolidates the immunity gained from earlier vaccinations, while the two MMR doses ensure adequate protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, which might otherwise pose serious health risks.
Timely immunisations not only protect your child but also contribute to community health by preventing the spread of these dangerous diseases. If you have any concerns or questions about your child’s vaccination schedule, we encourage you to contact us. We are here to support you in safeguarding your child's health and future.
