Vaccines & Immunizations — Protecting Your Child’s Health
At Omaha Childrens Clinic, we strongly support the immunization recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as the safest and most effective way to protect children from serious, preventable diseases. The AAP’s evidence-based schedules are developed by pediatric experts who continually review the latest research to determine the safest and most effective timing for each vaccine in childhood and adolescence. Vaccines have been carefully studied for decades and continue to be closely monitored through multiple national safety systems. Scientific evidence consistently shows that vaccines are safe, effective, and essential for protecting both individual children and the broader community.
Vaccinating children on schedule helps prevent illnesses that can cause severe complications, hospitalization, and long-term health problems. It also helps protect vulnerable individuals in our community, including infants, elderly family members, and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccines are one of the most important tools in pediatric medicine and are a cornerstone of keeping children healthy and thriving.
To view the current schedules from the American Academy of Pediatrics, please visit the following links:
🔗 AAP Recommended Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule (Red Book Online) — Official AAP schedule outlining recommended vaccines by age: https://publications.aap.org/redbook/resources/15585/AAP-Immunization-Schedule Pediatrics Publications
🔗 AAP Immunizations Resource Page — General AAP information on immunizations and vaccine recommendations for children and teens: https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/immunizations/ AAP
Common Vaccine Questions
Are vaccines safe?
Yes. The AAP strongly supports immunizations as the safest and most effective way to prevent serious disease in children and adolescents. Vaccines are thoroughly studied and continually monitored for safety as new evidence emerges. AAP
Do vaccines cause autism or developmental delays?
No. Extensive scientific research has shown no link between vaccines and autism or developmental disorders. This has been confirmed repeatedly by major medical organizations worldwide.
Why follow the AAP schedule?
The AAP schedule is designed to protect children at the ages when they are most at risk for specific diseases. Delaying or altering the schedule can leave children vulnerable without evidence of improved safety or effectiveness. AAP
Why does my child need so many vaccines at a young age?
Infants and young children are most vulnerable to serious complications from infectious diseases. The recommended schedule is designed to protect children as early and as safely as possible, when they need protection the most.
Can my child receive multiple vaccines at one visit?
Yes. Giving multiple vaccines at one visit is safe and effective. Children’s immune systems are capable of handling far more antigens than those contained in vaccines, and receiving vaccines together reduces the number of visits and delays in protection.
What side effects should I expect?
Most children experience only mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fussiness. These symptoms are temporary and usually resolve within a day or two.
What should I do if my child is behind on vaccines?
Call our office. We can review your child’s immunization history and help you catch up based on AAP recommendations.
Can I talk with a provider if I have concerns?
Absolutely. We encourage open and respectful conversations, so you understand the benefits, timing, and safety of immunizations in the context of your child’s health.
At Omaha Childrens Clinic, we are here to answer your questions and support you in making informed decisions about your child’s health. We provide compassionate, comprehensive, and personalized care that follows trusted pediatric guidelines.