Vaccines 101: Common Questions and Concerns Addressed

Vaccination Advocates in Tucson

Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ, is directed by three amazing pediatric doctors: Dr. Jeff Couchman, Dr. Susan McMahon, and Dr. Nicole Abdy. Our medical doctors are well-versed in pediatric medicine and advocate for childhood immunizations. They are skilled at what they do, experienced, and licensed. While our doctors provide various services, one of their most crucial duties is ensuring all their children are protected against dangerous childhood diseases/illnesses.

Our doctors want to answer some of the more common questions surrounding the childhood vaccination program.

Vaccines 101: Common Questions and Concerns Addressed

Q. Why does my child need vaccinations when kids don't get the disease?
A. The diseases against which we vaccinate are rare but have not been eliminated from the world.  Children do not contract these diseases because of vaccinations. If parents stop vaccinating their children, these diseases will return.

Q. I have heard that some vaccinations are not safe.
A. Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ, knows that all childhood immunizations are tested and proven safe many times before being administered to our children. You can look this information up on the following websites: CDC, Healthline, HHS, AAP, and WHO.

Q. What do vaccinations do for my child?
A. Parts of the virus or bacteria are contained within each vaccination. The body's immune system recognizes these and creates an immune response against them, giving the body a head start for when your child is exposed to the actual disease.

Q. Are there instances when you do not vaccinate a child?
A. Yes. We do not administer a vaccine to your child if they are allergic to any ingredients in the vaccine or if they have a medical condition that makes it unsafe to vaccinate them.

Q. What is the best way to protect my child against disease?
A. Get your child vaccinated with all recommended vaccines without delays.

Q. Does your practice believe in prevention?
A. Absolutely! We consider preventing disease by vaccinating our patients the most important part of our job.  In fact, we require that all of our patients be vaccinated.  Our vaccination policy can be found here:  https://www.mesquitepediatrics.com/vaccine-policy/

Q. I have heard that vaccinations have side effects, and I don't want my child to get sick because of a vaccination.
A. Most vaccinations have mild to no side effects. Mild side effects last one to two days, and we tell you how to make your child more comfortable. However, if your child does not get vaccinated for a specific disease, the effects of illness can be severe; some last a lifetime, while others risk death. The mild side effects from vaccination are a small price to pay to avoid lifelong disability or death.

Q. When will you vaccinate my child?
A. We urge you to make and keep well-child visits to review any required vaccinations.  Our routine vaccination schedule can be found here:  https://www.mesquitepediatrics.com/well-check-and-immunization-schedule/

Childhood Diseases Stop at Mesquite

Call us today at 520-648-5437 and make a well-visit appointment for your child at Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ. Dr. Couchman, Dr. McMahon, or Dr. Abdy would love to meet with you and set your mind at ease regarding your child's immunizations.