This article is part of a series of explainers on vaccine development and distribution. Learn more about vaccines – from how they work and how they’re made to ensuring safety and equitable access – in WHO’s Vaccines Explained series.
Infants are highly vulnerable to infection from the moment they are born. While antibodies passed from their mother during pregnancy and through breast milk give them a layer of protection against harmful germs, this immunity only lasts the first few months of life.
Vaccines play a crucial role in safeguarding your child against harmful germs that could cause serious illness or even be life-threatening. For vaccines to work best, they need to be given before your child is exposed to these germs. That’s why most childhood immunizations are planned within the first 12 to 18 months of life.
One of the best ways to keep your child safe is to make sure they get their vaccines on time.
Read full story here