Shielded by Vaccinations

(CBS)  Not only children need to be immunized against a variety of contagious diseases that can pose serious threats to their health. For students, the need to be vaccinated increases as they are exposed to others who may have everything from the flu to chickenpox. The Early Show's Dr. Emily Senay reports.

Without vaccinations, young people are at risk for catching dangerous illnesses that can lead to brain injury or even death.

Some vaccines offer protection against more than one disease. DTaP covers diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough). Td covers tetanus and diphtheria only and is used as a booster shot for teens and adults. The MMR vaccine immunizes children against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Following is a list of shots that children in each age range need:

• Children ages 4 to 6 require immunization with DTaP, MMR, and polio vaccines.

  
  
  

• Children ages 11 to 12 need MMR, hepatitis B, and chickenpox vaccines. If at least 5 years has gone by since their last DTaP vaccine, a booster Td vaccine is recommended.

  
  
  

• Teens ages 14 to 16 need a booster Td if 5 years have elapsed since their last shot. Health officials also recommend boosters every 10 years thereafter.

While some children experience reactions to vaccines, they are usually mild and well worth the long-term protection the child will receive.

Some swelling and soreness at the site of the shot is normal, as is mild fever.

Serious reactions are very rare, but parents should consult a physician immediately if they occur.

If you can't afford to pay for immunizations, you can get free or low-cost shots at community health centers, medical school clinics, public health clinics, children's clinics, and some pediatricians' offices.

Check with your doctor or a local health clinic to find out what shots your child needs before the school year begins.

For more information on vaccines, see The American Academy of Pediatrics' immunization schedule.

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