Vaccination Recommendations
Significance of vaccination
Vaccinations are crucial in protecting against infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria, which can result in severe health consequences or even death. While newborns receive initial immunity from their mothers, this protection naturally diminishes over time. Vaccination offers a proactive means to bolster immunity and prevent the onset of serious infectious diseases.
It's vital to start vaccinations early to seamlessly transition from maternal immunity to vaccine-induced protection, ensuring the baby's health and well-being.
●Types of vaccination
Vaccines are designed to build resistance against specific pathogens. They range from inactivated vaccines, which contain detoxified pathogens, to live vaccines, modified to a safe level of virulence.
Various methods of administration are available, including injections like BCG and oral doses for diseases like rotavirus.
●Scheduling and Frequency
Each vaccine requires a specific number of doses, scheduled at optimal times with designated intervals between doses. The first 6 months of life are particularly critical for vaccinations, necessitating an organized schedule to ensure all necessary vaccinations are administered.
Discussing vaccination plans with a pediatrician before the child reaches 2 months old is recommended to establish an effective immunization timeline.
Types of Vaccines
| Type | Minimum required interval until next vaccination | Major Vaccines |
|---|---|---|
| Inactivated Vaccines (Non-toxic pathogens) |
No limits (As of October 2020) |
Japanese Encephalitis, DPT-IPV(diphtheria/pertussis/ tetanus/polio), Hib, childhood streptococcus pneumoniae, hepatitis B |
| Live Vaccines (Reduced-toxic pathogens) |
four weeks | BCG (tuberculosis), MR (measles/rubella), mumps, varicella, rotavirus |
In Conclusion
May your journey through pregnancy and childbirth have been a triumphant one, bringing daily joy and happiness with your precious baby.
This booklet, created for those navigating the postpartum period, emphasizes "maternal health" and "family planning," developed with the collaboration of the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. We received valuable guidance from:
・Dr. Masanobu Tanaka, former Professor at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Toho University Medical Center Omori Hospital
・Dr. Tomoko Adachi, Honorary Director of the Aiiku Hospital Comprehensive Maternal and Child Health Center
Supervision was kindly provided by：
・Dr. Isamu Ishiwata, President of the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
May it assist you in fostering a vibrant and healthy environment for your family.
JFPA (Japan Family Planning Association，Inc.)
Representative Director and Chairman Hiroyuki Mitsuhashi