This summer, the Bridgeport Department of Health & Social Services has teamed up with DOCS Medical Group to offer free vaccinations for children residing in Bridgeport, CT. Importantly, no insurance is required, making it accessible to all families.
Here is essential information about the age-specific vaccine requirements, the importance of vaccinations, how to access them, and tips to ensure a smooth vaccination experience.
Vaccines protect children from highly contagious diseases that can be very harmful or deadly, especially for infants and those with weak immune systems. According to UNICEF, immunized children are more likely to grow up healthy. Children not only protect themselves but also help prevent the spread of diseases in the community by getting vaccinated. As such, vaccinations are key to avoiding outbreaks and ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
Vaccines help the immune system fight infections by teaching it to recognize and combat specific diseases without causing illness. They prepare the body’s defenses to respond more quickly and effectively when exposed to the actual virus or bacteria.
Herd immunity occurs when a large part of a population becomes immune to a disease, making its spread from person to person unlikely. This means that even those who are not immune, either due to not being vaccinated or other reasons, have some protection because the disease has fewer opportunities to spread.
However, the risk of infection is not entirely eliminated for those individuals. Achieving high herd immunity is crucial to protecting the community, especially those who cannot be vaccinated.
Vaccines are very safe, with serious side effects being rare. Most side effects, like soreness or a mild fever, are minor and temporary. If you have concerns about vaccinating your child, consult a healthcare provider. Note that research shows no link between vaccines and autism.
Summer is an ideal time to get children vaccinated because it ensures they are protected before the start of the school year. Vaccinations during the summer help prevent the spread of diseases when children return to school and come into close contact with their peers. Additionally, getting vaccinated in the summer can prevent the disruption of school activities and learning due to illness. Taking advantage of summer vaccination programs helps maintain community health and keeps everyone safe.
According to Connecticut mandates, it’s essential for parents to adhere to the recommended vaccine schedule to keep their children up-to-date and compliant with school requirements. Here’s a brief overview of when key vaccines are needed from the childhood vaccine handout:
Type of | What’s It For? |
Hepatitis B | Prevents liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, which can lead to chronic liver disease or liver cancer. Children typically receive three doses, starting at birth. |
DTaP/Tdap | Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough), all of which can cause severe respiratory issues and other complications. DTaP is given in five doses starting at 2 months, while Tdap is a booster given at 11-12 years. |
Polio (IPV) | Prevents polio, a virus that can cause paralysis and even death. The IPV vaccine is given in four doses, starting at 2 months. |
MMR | Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, which can lead to serious health issues like pneumonia, meningitis, and congenital rubella syndrome. Two doses are administered, first Pat 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. |
Varicella | Prevents chickenpox, a highly contagious disease that causes an itchy rash and can lead to serious complications. Children receive two doses, the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years. |
Hepatitis A | Guards against hepatitis A, a liver infection spread through contaminated food or water. Two doses are given, starting at 12 months and spaced six months apart. |
Hib | Prevents Haemophilus influenzae type b, which can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other serious infections. The vaccine is given in four doses, starting at 2 months. |
Pneumococcal | Protects against pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The vaccine is given in four doses, starting at 2 months. |
Meningococcal | Prevents meningococcal disease, a serious bacterial illness that can cause meningitis and septicemia. Children receive one dose at 11-12 years and a booster at 16 years. |
Influenza | Guards against the flu and its complications, which can include pneumonia and hospitalization. The flu vaccine is recommended annually for children starting at 6 months. |
This summer, take advantage of the free vaccination program offered by the Bridgeport Department of Health & Social Services and DOCS Medical Group to protect your children and community. This initiative ensures that all children in Bridgeport can receive essential vaccinations at no cost, making it easier for families to keep their kids up-to-date with immunizations. You not only protect your own children but also contribute to the overall health and safety of the community by participating.
Don’t miss out—get your children vaccinated today! Open every weekday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
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