5 Questions To Ask About Vaccinations
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are my alone.
Vaccinations.
One of those hot topics that bring out all the big feelings from mamas and dads. And rightly so! Vaccinations are a big decision and one not to be taken lightly.
Being a part of the natural parenting community you might be surprised to hear that I don’t consider myself pro-vaccine or anti-vaccine. I truly believe both are viable options depending on the circumstances. And really, there are many, many options that fall between the pro and anti camp. I think that’s why I call myself pro-research when it comes to vaccinations.
As parents we have a huge responsibility to care for our children. We study and read, ask questions and seek out experts on a plethora of topics. In my humble opinion, vaccinations need to be at the forefront of that research. I mean, you and I both read food labels, right? Shouldn’t we be reading the labels and ingredients of our child’s vaccines?
Vaccines are not a single event like birth and it’s not a short season like first foods or transferring a little one to their own bed. The decision about vaccinations comes up again and again from day one through adulthood. Plus, the recommendations are often changing, vaccines are constantly being developed/revised and new studies are always coming out. Pretty much, there is always new information to be evaluating and applying to your family’s individual circumstances.
Being the researcher I am, here are a handful of questions to ask, research and evaluate before proceeding with your vaccination plan …
- What is my purpose in vaccinating my children? Where did this opinion come from?
- What does the CDC recommend?
- What does my pediatrician recommend? Have I gathered scientific information from both “camps”? Many physicians, naturopaths and chiropractors offer classes or Q&As on vaccinations to broaden your knowledge base. I love taking these classes and having the opportunity to learn more and ask questions based on each of my child’s individual health.
- Is my or my child’s situation unique? Is there a reason to specifically follow or stray from the general recommendation?
- What are the risks and benefits of each vaccine? Is every vaccine right for us?
Back to school is a common time to address your child’s current vaccination plan and believe it or not, that doesn’t necessarily have to happen at the doctor’s office. Your local Walgreen’s Pharmacy is a great resource when researching and/or getting vaccinations.
This last week I popped in to Walgreens and gathered some vaccine inserts for my personal research. I was able to chat with the pharmacist and even found out that I can request a specific brand/type of vaccine be ordered based on my preference. This was GREAT news because I’ve previously been told by our doctor’s office that they “don’t usually do that” and that “I’m not sure we can” :/ High five Walgreens!
After evaluating your family’s personal vaccine plan, if you deem a specific vaccine necessary head on over to Walgreens. For every vaccine given they’ll give a vaccine to a child in a developing country through the United Nation Foundation’s Shot@Life Campaign — Get a Shot. Give a Shot. Great concept, right?
I believe vaccines are a very personal decision which is why I’ve never written about our decision here. Instead, I tend to share articles and studies I read, learn from and appreciate. Everyone’s situation is so different and I’m no expert on your children or circumstance so it most definitely isn’t my place to advise on what is best for you and yours!
Today, regardless of your family’s vaccine schedule, would you mind sharing a link or two to some of your favorite resources in the comments? I’d love to have a whole list to peruse in the coming weeks!
You can find some of my favorite birth and parenting resources here, there’s a whole vaccination section for your reading pleasure :)
Thank you to Walgreens for sponsoring today’s conversation about vaccinations. It’s an important one! When you think of back to school – think Walgreens! They’re the place to shop for all your back to school supplies and whatever vaccinations you deem appropriate for your school aged child. Don’t miss Walgreen’s deals and the Get a Shot. Give a Shot. #GetaShot #CollectiveBias
