By Samir Doshi, MD, FAAP, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia at Virtua Pediatrician and Virtua North Chair of Pediatrics

We all want the best for our children and vaccinating them is one of the most important steps to ensure their health and safety.

It’s normal to have questions, and we understand your concerns. Rest assured, vaccines undergo rigorous testing and continuous monitoring to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Most importantly, they protect your children against serious diseases with severe consequences.

Why should I vaccinate my children?

You'll protect them from preventable diseases.
Vaccinating your child protects them and helps protect vulnerable members of the community, such as infants and those with weakened immune systems. Children are less likely to get measles, mumps, rubella, polio, pertussis (whooping cough), and other preventable diseases when vaccinated.

You'll reduce their risk of getting measles.
In 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the United States, but it’s coming back as vaccine hesitancy and distrust grow. In 2025, the U.S. is experiencing an outbreak, reporting the first measles-related death of a child in more than a decade. Most of these cases occurred in areas with low vaccination rates.

The health risks from measles include pneumonia, encephalitis (a rare but potentially fatal brain inflammation), ear infections, and dehydration.

You're traveling.
When traveling, your child is more likely to contract a disease, especially if they aren't vaccinated. Some vaccinations can be given ahead of schedule if you're traveling to a high-risk area.

You'll minimize your child's exposure at the doctor's office.
When you follow the recommended immunization schedule, your child receives multiple vaccines at one time, which is safe. Getting a few vaccines at a time also reduces the number of visits needed and your child's exposure to germs from other people and patients in the doctor's office.

You'll reduce their risk of catching the flu.
Annual flu shots are recommended between September through April for all children over six months. In 2024-2025, flu severity for all age groups has been at its highest since 2017-2018. The CDC estimates that there have been at least 37 million illnesses, 480,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 deaths from flu so far this season, including nearly 100 pediatric deaths.

You're preparing them for childcare services and schools.
New Jersey state law requires a minimum number of vaccinations before your child can be admitted to a preschool or childcare facility. Most likely, your child will receive the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) shot when they’re 12-15 months old, then get a booster around age 4 before starting school.

You'll help prevent the spread of diseases.
When most people receive all their immunizations, it creates a “herd immunity” that helps everyone stay healthier.

You won't put them at risk for autism.
It's important to know that extensive research has shown no link between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are designed to protect your child from preventable diseases.

You'll help keep them safe.
The vaccination schedule was made to protect young people who are most prone to the severe effects of these illnesses. Vaccines are safe and effective, they protect young babies and children, and they save lives.

If you have any questions or concerns about vaccines, don't hesitate to talk to your child's doctor. They can provide the information you need to make an informed decision.

Wouldn't you want to do everything possible to keep your child safe and healthy?

• Schedule an appointment for your child.