Vaccines are vital for the health care of the person from birth, since they have the function of protecting them and preventing several diseases, especially in childhood. “When we get vaccinated, we not only protect ourselves, but also those around us. It is important to comply with the vaccination schedule, even in the current situation”, says Dr. Erick Olivera, pediatrician at our clinic.

What vaccines should you give them and at what age?

The MINSA vaccination schedule establishes the following vaccines:

• At birth: BCG, which prevents cases of complicated tuberculosis; and Hepatitis B, to avoid the transmission of this disease at birth
• At 2 and 4 months: 1st and 2nd doses Pentavalent (Hepatitis B, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae), Polio, Rotavirus and Pneumococcus
• At 6 months: 3rd dose Pentavalent and Polio
• At 7 and 8 months: seasonal influenza vaccine
• At one year of life: 1st dose MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), 3rd dose Pneumococcus and 1st dose of Varicella
• At 15 months: 1 dose of Yellow fever (Yellow fever)
• At 18 months: 1st booster DPT (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) and Polio, 2nd dose SPR
• At 4 years: 2nd booster DPT and Polio, 1st booster for Varicella

The specialist indicates also other important vaccines that should be considered during this period, such as the vaccine against Meningococcus and Hepatitis A. In addition, he adds that, although the vaccines can cause slight pain to the child, it is self-limited and temporary.

Why is it important to vaccinate children, even in a pandemic?

Given the current situation due to COVID-19, many families avoid attending health facilities. However, the World Health Organization and UNICEF established that continuing to vaccinate children during the pandemic is a priority. This is because childhood immunization prevents diseases, disabilities and deaths from pneumonia, measles, meningitis, diphtheria, hepatitis B, among others.

At Clinica Ricardo Palma we have certification of safe measures and protocols against COVID-19. Your baby can receive the corresponding vaccine in the offices of our Pediatric service. It should be noted that, between 9 and 13 years of age, girls can receive the vaccine against HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), in order to prevent cervical cancer early.

Dr. Erick Olivera
Pediatrician at Clinica Ricardo Palma