Influenza (Flu)
Vaccines can be used to prevent influenza, commonly referred to as the flu. Influenza is a viral infection that can cause severe respiratory symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. It can also lead to more serious complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Vaccines are available for both children and adults, and they are typically updated each year to protect against the most common strains of influenza.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause a rash, fever, and other serious complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in the 1960s, it was a leading cause of death among children. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing measles, and the World Health Organization recommends that children receive the measles vaccine at 12–15 months of age.
Mumps
Mumps is a viral infection that can cause fever, headache, and swollen salivary glands. Complications of mumps can include inflammation of the brain, meningitis, and deafness. Vaccines are available to protect against mumps, and the World Health Organization recommends that children receive two doses of the vaccine, typically at 12–15 months of age and again at 4–6 years of age.
Polio
Polio is a viral infection that can cause paralysis and even death. Vaccines are available to protect against polio, and the World Health Organization recommends that all children receive three doses of the vaccine, typically at birth, 4–6 weeks later, and again 6–12 months later.
Rotavirus
Rotavirus is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration in infants and young children. Vaccines are available to protect against rotavirus, and the World Health Organization recommends that all children receive two or three doses of the vaccine, depending on the brand.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause a thick grey coating to form in the back of the throat. It can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, and even death. Vaccines are available to protect against diphtheria, and the World Health Organization recommends that all children receive three doses of the vaccine, typically at two, four, and six months of age.
Tetanus
Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can cause muscle spasms and even death. Vaccines are available to protect against tetanus, and the World Health Organization recommends that all children receive three doses of the vaccine, typically at two, four, and six months of age.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause severe coughing and difficulty breathing. Vaccines are available to protect against pertussis, and the World Health Organization recommends that all children receive three doses of the vaccine, typically at two, four, and six months of age.