Should I have my child vaccinated?!
Question:
Should I have my child vaccinated?
What should I know about the dangers of vaccinations (autism, etc.)? Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Answers:
Many people are debating this now. One trip to a third world country will assure you that diptheria, pertussis, rubella, and tetanus are not diseases you want your child to contract.
The American Academy of Pediatrics very much supports immunizing children against disease. You can read their information here: http://www.aap.org/healthtopics/immuniza...
If you are feeling concerns from certain sources (family, friends, media) about dangers associated with immunization, I would encourage you to seek out the data supporting these claims. Read what you can find, and make an informed decision.
Also, you should trust your pediatrician. If he/she advises care that you are uncomfortable with, ask a lot of questions, and even sleep on it. If after considering it, you feel that his/her recommended course of action doesn't seem right to you, find a new pediatrician. You and your child need a doctor you can trust.