Pediatric Vaccine Schedule in the Philippines: Parents’ Guide

The pediatric vaccine in the Philippines: A guide for Filipino parents. Vaccines are an important part of preventative healthcare and can help protect children from various dangerous diseases. It is important for parents to follow the recommended pediatric vaccine schedule in the Philippines to help ensure their child’s health and safety. The recommended vaccine schedule is designed to protect children at the earliest possible age when they are most vulnerable. Following the schedule ensures that children receive the full benefit of vaccines and helps to keep them safe.

The hesitation of Filipino parents

There are a lot of mixed feelings out there about vaccinating children. Some Filipinos feel very strongly that all children should be vaccinated, while others believe that pediatric vaccines are not necessary or even harmful. So, what is the truth? Are pediatric vaccines good, bad, or ugly? Let’s take a look.

Vaccinating Your Children: A Parent’s Guide

When it comes to protecting your children from disease, vaccination is one of the most important steps you can take. Pediatric vaccines are safe and effective, and they help your child build immunity to serious illnesses.

This guide will help you understand the benefits of vaccinating your child, as well as answer some common questions about pediatric vaccine schedules and types of immunization. With this information, you can make the best decision for your family.

What are pediatric vaccines?

A vaccine is a “dead” or “modified” form of a virus, bacteria, or other infectious agents. The immunization process begins when a person is exposed to the weakened form of a virus (or other pathogens). As that person’s immune system fights off the infection, the individual develops immunity to the disease.

When a child is vaccinated, they are injected with a small amount of the weakened virus. This causes their body to create immunity to the disease without putting them at risk for developing the full-blown illness. Following the pediatric vaccine schedule is important because they help protect children from serious and sometimes deadly diseases.

Why pediatric vaccine is important for Filipino children?

The pediatric vaccine is important for children in the Philippines because they help protect them from serious diseases. Vaccines work by preparing the body to recognize and fight off infections. They are an essential part of keeping children healthy.

Vaccines are safe and effective, according to the WHO and various medical research. They have been used for many years, and their safety is constantly monitored. Serious side effects from pediatric vaccines are rare.

Pediatric vaccine help protects not only the vaccinated child but also others in the community who cannot be vaccinated, such as babies or Filipino adults with weakened immune systems. When enough Filipinos in a community are vaccinated, it helps to prevent outbreaks of disease.

What are the common pediatric vaccines?

Pediatric vaccines are one of the most controversial topics in the Philippines. Some Filipino parents are in-favor of them, and some are against them. There is a lot of misinformation out there about the pediatric vaccine schedule and how immunization work. Here is a breakdown of the most common pediatric vaccine and what they do to Filipino children.

DTaP vaccine

The DTaP vaccine is for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is given to children at 2, 4, 6, and 15 months old, with a booster at 4-6 years old. Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can cause respiratory problems, paralysis, and death. Tetanus is a bacterial infection that causes muscle spasms and death. Pertussis (whooping cough) is a bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits and can be deadly in infants.

What is diphtheria? How can it affect Filipino children?

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can cause difficulty breathing, paralysis, and even death. It most often affects children under the age of 5. Diphtheria is spread through close contact with an infected person, usually through coughing or sneezing. The best way to protect your child from diphtheria is to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations.

If your child does become infected with diphtheria, they will likely experience a sore throat, fever, and swollen glands in their neck. They may also have a thick gray coating on the back of their throat. In some cases, diphtheria can lead to complications like pneumonia, heart failure, and nerve damage. If you think your child may have diphtheria, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as it can be deadly.

What is tetanus? How can it affect Filipino children?

Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacteria that affects the nervous system. It can cause muscle spasms and lead to death. Tetanus can be prevented with vaccinations.

Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacteria called Clostridium tetani. This bacteria is found in soil, dust, and manure. It can enter the body through cuts or wounds. Once inside the body, the bacteria produce a toxin that affects the nervous system. This can cause muscle spasms and death.

Tetanus can be prevented with vaccinations. The tetanus vaccine is usually given as part of the DTaP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis). The DTaP vaccine is given to children at 2, 4, 6, and 15 months of age, with a booster dose at 4-6 years of age.

What is pertussis? How can it affect Filipino children?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious infection of the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis most often affects infants and young children and can be very serious, even deadly. The best way to protect your child from pertussis is to make sure they are up-to-date on their immunizations/vaccinations.

Pertussis begins with cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose or sneezing and a mild cough. After 1-2 weeks, the cough becomes more severe. The child may have coughing spells that end with a “whooping” sound when they take a deep breath in. These spells can be so violent that the child vomits or faints.

MMR vaccine

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against all three diseases. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis. Mumps is a virus that primarily affects the salivary glands and can cause hearing loss, meningitis, and sterility in men. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a virus that can cause birth defects in pregnant women. The MMR vaccine is safe for most Filipinos and is the best way to prevent these diseases.

What is measles? How can it affect children in the Philippines?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause serious health complications in children, particularly those who are not vaccinated. Measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. A child with measles can also spread the virus to others, which is why it is so important for parents to ensure their children are vaccinated against measles. While the measles vaccine is extremely effective at preventing the disease, some children may still be at risk of contracting measles if they are exposed to the virus. Parents should talk to their child’s Filipino pediatrician doctor about the risks and benefits of vaccinating their child against measles.

What is mumps? How can it affect Filipino children?

Mumps is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious health complications in children, such as inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The virus is typically spread through close contact with an infected person, such as sharing cups or utensils. Mumps can be prevented through immunization programs such as vaccination, which is why it’s important for parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on their immunizations. Symptoms of mumps include fever, headache, muscle aches, and loss of appetite. In some cases, mumps can also lead to more serious health problems like deafness or meningitis. If your child shows any signs of mumps, it’s important to see a pediatrician or immunologist doctor right away so they can receive treatment and avoid further complications.

What is rubella? How can it affect children in the Philippines?

Rubella is a viral infection that can cause serious health problems in children. It is also known as German measles or three-day measles. Rubella is spread through the air and can be passed from person to person through coughing or sneezing. The virus can also be passed on through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, toys, or clothing.

Rubella (German measles) can cause a range of complications in children, including:

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• A rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
• Joint pain
• Headache
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
• Deafness
• Heart defects

In severe cases, rubella can lead to death.

Hib vaccine

The Hib vaccine is a vital part of the pediatric vaccine schedule in the Philippines. This vaccine can help protect your child from a serious bacterial infection called Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Hib can cause severe pneumonia, meningitis, and other life-threatening illnesses. The Hib vaccine is safe and effective, and it is the best way to protect your child from Hib disease. It is usually given to children at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.

Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, pneumonia, and other life-threatening illnesses in young children. The Hib vaccine is given as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule in the Philippines, starting at two months of age.

Hib disease is most common in Filipino children under five years of age and can be very severe or even fatal. Early diagnosis and treatment is critical. Symptoms of Hib disease include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, tiredness, and confusion. In infants and very young children, Hib disease can also cause vomiting, irritability, and seizures.

The Hib vaccine is safe and effective at preventing this serious disease. All children should receive the Hib vaccine according to the recommended immunization schedule.

What is severe pneumonia? How can it impact your child’s health?

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can range from mild to severe and can even be life-threatening. Children with severe pneumonia may have trouble breathing, may need oxygen therapy, and may need to be hospitalized. Pneumonia can cause serious health problems for children, so it’s important to get vaccinated against it. The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for all children under the age of five.

What is meningitis? How can it impact your child’s health?

Meningitis is a serious infection of the meninges, the thin layers of tissue that surround and protect your brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. It can also be caused by certain medications or illnesses.

Meningitis is a serious illness that can cause death or permanent disability. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. If you think your child has meningitis, take them to the hospital immediately.

There are several vaccines that can help protect your child from meningitis. The most common is the Hib vaccine, which protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria; the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria; and the meningococcal vaccine, which protects against Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.

Polio vaccine

The Polio vaccine is a life-saving vaccine that protects children from the debilitating and often deadly disease of polio. The virus is spread through contact with contaminated water or food and can cause paralysis and even death. The Polio vaccine is given to children as part of their routine immunizations, and it is one of the most effective vaccines available. The Polio vaccine has saved millions of lives and continues to protect children around the world from this devastating disease.

What causes polio in children?

Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that usually affects young children. The virus is spread through contact with contaminated feces or respiratory secretions and can cause paralysis or even death. In most cases, polio can be prevented with vaccination. The Philippine government recommends that all children receive the polio vaccine as part of their routine immunization schedule.

What are the types of polio vaccines in the Philippines?

There are three different types of polio vaccine: inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV), oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV), and bivalent OPV (bOPV). IPV is given as an injection, while OPV and bOPV are given orally. All three vaccines are effective in preventing polio, but OPV has the additional benefit of providing “herd immunity” against the disease. This means that even unvaccinated individuals are protected from the virus if enough Filipinos have been vaccinated.

Varicella vaccine (chickenpox)

The Varicella vaccine is a live virus vaccine that is given to children to help prevent chickenpox. The virus in the vaccine is weakened so that it does not cause the disease, but it can still help the child’s body build immunity to chickenpox. The vaccine is usually given in two doses, with the first dose given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose given at 4-6 years of age. The vaccine is very effective at preventing chickenpox, and it is safe for most children.

What is chickenpox? How can it impact your child’s health?

As parents, we want what is best for our children. We want to protect them from harm and ensure they have a bright future. Part of protecting our children is ensuring they are up-to-date on their immunizations/vaccinations. One vaccine that is important for children to receive is the chickenpox vaccine.

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection. It is most commonly seen in children under the age of 15. The virus causes an itchy rash with blisters that can spread all over the body. Chickenpox can be a mild illness in some Filipino children, but it can be more severe in others. It can lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death.

The good news is that the chickenpox vaccine is very effective in preventing the disease.

Covid-19 vaccine

Covid-19 vaccine is a vaccine that helps protect against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is available in many countries and recommended for Filipinos of all ages. The first doses of the vaccine were administered in December 2020.

As of March 2021, there are two types of Covid-19 vaccines that have been authorized for use in the United States:

• The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, which is given in two doses three weeks apart, and
• The Moderna Covid-19 vaccine is given in two doses, four weeks apart.

Covid-19 vaccines are also available in other countries.

Most Filipinos who get the Covid-19 vaccine have no serious side effects.

Covid-19 vaccines for children

There are many different types of vaccines available for children, and the decision of which to choose can be difficult for parents. However, with the recent outbreak of Covid-19, it is important to consider the risks and benefits of all vaccines when making a decision for your child.

The benefits of getting the Covid-19 vaccine far outweigh the risks. The most common side effects are minor and temporary, such as pain at the injection site, fever, or tiredness.

Recommended Pediatric Vaccine Schedule by Age

According to CDC and the Department of Health of the Philippines, here are the recommended pediatric vaccine schedule for Filipino children.

Birth: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

A Filipino child will receive the first of three doses of the vaccine that protects against hepatitis B before you leave the hospital or birthing facility where he or she was born. Infection with the hepatitis B virus can result in a persistent enlargement of the liver as well as other potentially lifelong consequences. It is essential to provide protection against hepatitis B for Filipino infants and young children because they have a higher risk than adults of developing an incurable chronic infection that can last for a long time and eventually lead to liver damage or even liver cancer.

1-2 Months Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

Protect your child by beginning the process of immunization as early as possible. Your infant will begin receiving vaccinations against potentially dangerous infections between the ages of one and two months old. These vaccines include the following:

• Hepatitis B (2nd dose)
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis) (DTaP)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Polio (IPV)
• Pneumococcal (PCV)
• Rotavirus (RV)

4 Months Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

Protect your child by beginning the process of immunization as early as possible. Maintain a consistent approach to the prescribed vaccination regimen. At the age of 4 months, your child will take the following vaccinations in order to acquire protection against diseases that could be dangerous to them:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis) (DTaP)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Polio (IPV)
• Pneumococcal (PCV)
• Rotavirus (RV)
• Hepatitis B (HepB)

6 Months Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

Protect your child by beginning the process of immunization as early as possible. Maintain a consistent approach to the prescribed vaccination regimen. At the age of six months, your child will receive the following immunizations in order to acquire protection against diseases that could be dangerous to them:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis) (DTaP)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Polio (IPV)
• Pneumococcal (PCV)
• Rotavirus (RV)
• Influenza (flu)

7-11 Months Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

Normally, there is no vaccination at the ages of 7 and 11 months old. On the other hand, if your child skipped a vaccination at an earlier age, this is a great opportunity to fill those vaccine backlogs.

During each flu season, infants aged six months and older should be vaccinated against the flu.

12-23 Months Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

Your child should be protected against 14 diseases that can be avoided with immunizations if you adhere to the recommended vaccination schedule and give them all of their shots by the time they are 2 years old. Your child will receive the following vaccinations between the ages of 12 and 23 months in order to sustain his or her development of immunity against diseases that could be harmful:

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis) (DTaP)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Polio (IPV) (between 6 through 18 months)
• Pneumococcal (PCV)
• Hepatitis A (HepA)
• Hepatitis B (HepB)
• Flu immunizations every flu season.

2-3 Years Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

When your child is between the ages of 2 and 3, you should take them in for checkups at the pediatrician annually.

Additionally, immunizations against flu should be administered during flu season.

4-6 Years Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

When your child is between the ages of 4 and 6, you should take them in for annual checkups at the pediatrician clinic or hospital. Your child should have the following vaccines during this time:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis) (DTaP)
• Polio (IPV)
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Chickenpox (varicella)
• Influenza (flu) every year

7-10 Years Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

When your child is between the ages of 7 and 10, you should take them in for regular checkups with your pediatrician at least once a year.

In addition, annual vaccinations against flu season should be administered to youngsters.

11-12 Years Old: Pediatric Vaccine Schedule

There are four immunizations that are suggested for Filipino children who are entering their preteen years; these vaccines protect not only your children but also your children’s friends and their friends’ families.

• Meningococcal conjugate vaccine
• HPV vaccine
• Tdap
• Flu vaccine every flu season

The benefits of following the pediatric vaccine schedule for Filipino children

Vaccinating Filipino children has been proven to be one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of disease. The benefits of vaccinating children far outweigh the risks. Vaccinating children protects not only them but also the community as a whole. It is highly recommended that Pinoy parents should follow the pediatric vaccine schedule.

Herd immunity is when a sufficient portion of a population is immune to a disease, making its spread unlikely. When enough Filipinos are vaccinated, herd immunity kicks in, offering protection to those who are unable to receive immunizations/vaccinations, such as infants and Pinoy adults with weakened immune systems.

Vaccinations have been one of the most successful public health interventions in history. They’ve helped eradicate diseases like smallpox and polio and have reduced the incidence of others, such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).

What happens if a Filipino child does not get any vaccination?

If your child does not get vaccinated, they are at risk of getting sick with a preventable disease. Immunization help protect children from diseases like the flu, chickenpox, and measles. These diseases can be deadly, and even if they are not, they can cause a great deal of suffering.

Without immunizations or vaccinations, children are also at risk for more serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis.

Immunizations are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your child from harm, so it is crucial that you make sure your child is up to date on their vaccinations.

If you are concerned about your child’s health, talk to your pediatrician about the best way to keep them healthy and safe.

Risks associated with childhood immunizations and vaccines

There are many risks associated with childhood vaccines. The most common side effects are fever and pain at the injection site. There is a small risk of more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, seizures, and temporary paralysis. These risks are extremely rare and typically occur only in Filipinos with weakened immune systems.

Despite the risks, childhood vaccines are incredibly safe and effective. They have been rigorously tested in clinical trials and are constantly monitored by government agencies. The benefits of vaccinating far outweigh the risks for most Filipinos. Vaccines have helped eradicate diseases like polio and smallpox that once killed millions of children each year.

Tips for Filipino parents to help their children through vaccinations

Vaccines are one of the most important tools that we have to protect Filipino youngsters from serious diseases. They are safe and effective, and they have been used for many years.

However, some parents may be worried about vaccinating their children. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

• Talk to your child’s pediatrician doctor about any concerns you may have. They can answer your questions and help put your mind at ease.
• Explain to your child why they need to be vaccinated. Try to use age-appropriate language that they will understand.
• Reassure your child that the vaccine is safe and that it will help them stay healthy. Let them know that many other kids their age also get vaccinated.
• If your child is anxious about getting a shot, distract them with a toy or book during the injection. Have your child practice getting a shot at home to help them understand what to expect.

Vaccinations are an important part of preventative care for children in the Philippines. They help protect against serious and sometimes deadly diseases. Despite the importance of vaccines, some parents remain hesitant to have their children vaccinated. If you are a parent who is considering immunizations for your child, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Talk to your child’s pediatrician doctor: Your Filipino pediatrician doctor is a great resource when it comes to making decisions about their health care. They can answer any questions you may have about the risks and benefits of vaccines and help put your mind at ease.

Educate yourself: There is a lot of misinformation out there about vaccines. It’s important that you do your own research and consult with reliable sources, such as the Department of Health in the Philippines or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the USA, to get accurate information.

Conclusion: Pediatric Vaccines Schedule Guide for Filipino Parents

In conclusion, it is important for Filipino parents to be aware of the various vaccines available for their children. With the help of a pediatrician, they can make an informed decision on which vaccines are right for their child. By vaccinating their children, parents can help protect their little ones from potentially deadly diseases.

Sources:

• Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) – Department of Health Philippines 
• Routine immunization for children in the Philippines – UNICEF 
• VACCINATION COVERAGE OF FILIPINO CHILDREN – Philippine Statistics Authority 
• Philippine campaign boosts child immunizations – PubMed 
• Recommended Vaccines by Age – CDC 
• Vaccination schedule for Philippines – WHO 
• An Overview of Philippine’s Routine Immunization for Infants – National Nutrition Council Philippines 
• The Standards for Pediatric Immunization Practice | HHS.gov 
• Why Childhood Immunizations Are Important – Stanford Medicine 
• Vaccine Types | HHS.gov 
• Childhood Vaccine Schedule – Cleveland Clinic 
• Vaccinations for Infants and Children, Age 0-10 Years – Immunize Org 
• Different Types of Vaccines – College of Physicians of Philadelphia 
• Childhood immunisation programme | nidirect