- 3 weeks ago
Vaccine Hesitancy in Children: Scientific Facts vs. Myths
What Is a Vaccine and Why Is It Given?
A vaccine is a biological preparation that teaches the immune system how to recognize and fight specific viruses or bacteria. It typically contains:
- Weakened or inactivated pathogens
- A piece of the pathogen (protein or toxin)
- Genetic material (e.g., mRNA)
Vaccines:
- Help the immune system develop memory without causing disease
- Provide protection before exposure
- Reduce the spread of contagious diseases
Vaccination protects not just the individual, but also the community—this is called herd immunity.
The Importance of Childhood Vaccines
Here are key vaccines included in Türkiye’s national immunization schedule:
|
Vaccine |
Protects Against |
|
DTaP-IPV-Hib |
Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type B |
|
PCV |
Pneumococcus (pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections) |
|
Hepatitis B |
Liver infection |
|
Hepatitis A |
Liver infection |
|
MMR |
Measles, mumps, rubella |
|
Varicella |
Chickenpox |
|
BCG |
Tuberculosis |
|
Rotavirus (optional) |
Severe diarrhea |
|
HPV (recommended) |
Cervical, penile, and throat cancers (9+ years) |
Common Myths About Vaccines and the Scientific Truth
Myth: “Vaccines cause autism.”
Truth:
This false claim originated from a now-discredited 1998 study.
Multiple large-scale studies have found no link between vaccines and autism.
Myth: “Vaccines weaken the immune system.”
Truth:
Vaccines actually train and strengthen the immune system.
Catching diseases naturally carries greater risks, including death and long-term damage.
Myth: “Too many vaccines overwhelm a baby’s body.”
Truth:
Babies are exposed to thousands of antigens daily from their environment.
Vaccines add only a tiny additional load.
Myth: “Vaccines are dangerous and have many side effects.”
Truth:
Mild side effects like fever or soreness are common.
Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.
Myth: “Diseases are already gone—why vaccinate?”
Truth:
Diseases declined because of vaccines.
Where vaccination rates drop, diseases like measles and diphtheria return quickly.
What Are the Consequences of Vaccine Refusal?
- Resurgence of preventable diseases
- Increased risk for unvaccinated individuals—especially babies or immunocompromised people
- Outbreaks and epidemics
- Strain on healthcare systems and increased costs
The WHO lists vaccine hesitancy among the top 10 global health threats as of 2023.
Tips for Parents Navigating Vaccine Information
- Use trusted sources: WHO, CDC, national health ministries
- Be cautious of social media misinformation
- Ask your pediatrician any questions you have
- Teach children age-appropriate facts about vaccines
Remember: Vaccination is an act of love and protection.
