FAQs
Have questions about immunizations? Visit the categories below to see if we have the answers! If you don't find what you are looking for, click on Contact Us at the top of the page and we'll try to get your questions answered.
Safety
Back to all categoriesWhat if my baby has a cold or fever, or is taking antibiotics? Can he or she still get vaccinated?
Yes. Your child can still be vaccinated if he or she has a mild illness, a low-grade fever, or is taking antibiotics. Ask your child's healthcare provider if you have questions.
• • •
I heard that some vaccines can cause autism. Is this true?
No. Scientific studies and reviews have found no relationship between vaccines and autism. Groups of experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Institute of Medicine (IOM), also agree that vaccines are not responsible for the number of children now recognized to have autism.
• • •
Is it okay for my baby to have so many shots at once?
Yes. Studies show that kid's bodies-even infants-can handle many shots at once. Having several vaccines at once is safe, even for a newborn. Combination vaccines protect your child against more than one disease with a single shot. This reduces the number of shots and office visits your child would need. It's not your imagination; there are a greater number of shots now than even a few years ago. That's because as science advances, we are able to protect your child against more diseases than ever before.
• • •
Are vaccinations safe?
Vaccines are safe, and scientists continually work to make sure they become even safer. Every vaccine undergoes many tests before being licensed, and its safety continues to be monitored as long as the vaccine is in use. Most side effects from vaccination are minor, such as soreness where the injection was given or a low-grade fever. These side effects do not last long and are treatable. Serious reactions are very rare. The tiny risk of a serious vaccine reaction has to be weighed against the very real risk of getting a dangerous vaccine-preventable disease. If you have concerns or questions, talk to your child's healthcare provider.• • •
