Recently, I took my son for a routine checkup, and thankfully, it was uneventful. After addressing a minor issue with a scaly patch on his toes (just the aftermath of some sweaty boy feet), our delightful nurse returned with his vaccines. He didn’t flinch for the first shot, cried for the second, but soon found comfort in my hugs, and we left feeling accomplished. It was just another day in the life of a parent, right?
I decided to share a sweet moment on my blog’s Instagram, posting a picture of my son’s hand clasping mine, with a caption praising his growth and mentioning his vaccination. I mentioned the brief discomfort he experienced from the shots, explaining I’d later teach him about herd immunity. I used hashtags like #vaccine and #motherhood, which, unbeknownst to me, would unleash a wave of unexpected backlash.
The response to my post was astonishing. While I didn’t receive a flood of harsh criticism, the comments were enough to prompt me to speak out. Some questioned my child’s head size, suggesting a link to autism, while others dismissed the concept of herd immunity, and some even argued about the “toxic” substances I had just allowed into my child’s body. It was astounding to me that people felt entitled to critique the informed choices I made for my family.
Many commenters echoed the same phrase: “Do your research.” As if I hadn’t. Do they think my pediatrician, who has dedicated years to her practice and has children of her own, would administer something harmful? I seriously doubt it.
To be completely honest, I did harbor some skepticism about vaccines in the past. I believe it’s healthy to question the information we receive. In fact, during my college years, I declined the H1N1 vaccine after hearing about potential side effects online. The rush to administer it made me uneasy. However, as time passed and I witnessed my peers remain healthy, I conducted thorough research and decided to go ahead with it, especially as I was preparing for a career in health care.
Before my first child was born, I encountered a plethora of alarming information regarding vaccines. The sheer volume of shots required by kindergarten was daunting, leading me to delve deeper into the subject. I compared the level of preservatives in vaccines to what we consume in our diets (for example, a pear contains significantly more formaldehyde than a flu shot). There’s no need to reinvent the wheel when so many sources have already debunked vaccine myths with evidence-based studies.
Ultimately, I chose to vaccinate my children. While I may occasionally forget to get my flu shot, it’s not a deliberate stance—it’s just my busy life getting the better of me.
So, why do I choose to vaccinate my kids? It’s not merely to prevent a cold; it’s about protecting them from severe diseases like polio, measles, and rubella. Yes, their bodies might combat these illnesses, but complications like brain infections or paralysis are real risks. A moment of discomfort from a shot is far preferable to a frantic dash to the ER due to a preventable disease.
We also vaccinate to protect those who cannot. I once worked with a young girl who was unable to receive vaccines due to her medical condition. Just as we wouldn’t deny someone access to food because they have allergies, we cannot overlook the importance of vaccinating for those who are medically compromised, such as those with cancer or immune disorders. By vaccinating, we foster a community of immunity that safeguards the most vulnerable among us, including newborns too young to be vaccinated.
I have no fear of the preservatives in vaccines; our bodies are equipped to handle them. Vaccines require preservatives to maintain their efficacy from lab to injection, and rest assured, your doctor isn’t going to inject you with a fresh batch of a viral disease.
To those who are hesitant about vaccinations, I won’t belittle your choices. I understand the fear and confusion that can arise from the overwhelming amount of information available. You’re trying to do what you think is best for your child. I urge you to broaden your research beyond fringe groups. It’s crucial to differentiate between correlation and causation and to evaluate sources critically. If you’re skeptical of the CDC, consider looking at the World Health Organization’s perspective or consulting with healthcare professionals. Be open to discussion about your concerns.
Let’s not forget the harsh reality of our history: children once succumbed to diseases that vaccines can now prevent. Thousands of families lost their beloved children to illnesses like rubella, which caused countless miscarriages. We live in a time where these dangers feel distant, yet we must remain vigilant. I’m not sharing this to change minds but to plant a seed of understanding.
When I vaccinate my children, it’s not just for their sake but for the protection of all children. Nothing anyone says will make me regret my decision.
So please, don’t tell me to “do my research.” I’ve done it thoroughly. I encourage you to do the same.
Love,
A fellow parent.
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Summary:
In this article, the author reflects on their experience with vaccines after facing criticism for vaccinating their children. They emphasize the importance of vaccines in preventing serious diseases and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated. The author encourages parents to conduct thorough research and engage in open discussions with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions. Ultimately, they assert that protecting their children through vaccination is a decision rooted in love for their family and community.