Tiny Arms, Mighty Shields

Why Baby Immunisations Are Your Superpower Move as a Parent

When you become a parent, you get superpowers—like surviving on two hours of sleep and being able to distinguish your baby’s cries (hungry cry vs. “I dropped my toy for the 17th time” cry). But there’s another way to step into your superhero shoes: keeping your baby protected with immunisations. Vaccines may not come with a cape, but they’re one of the most powerful tools you have to shield your little one from serious illnesses.

Why Immunisations Matter

Let’s face it: the world is full of germs that seem to have it out for humans, especially tiny ones. Babies are born with immature immune systems, which makes them especially vulnerable to diseases like measles, polio, and whooping cough. Vaccines train your baby’s immune system to recognise and fight these diseases before they have a chance to do any damage.

And it’s not just about your baby. By immunising your child, you’re helping protect other children who can’t get vaccinated yet, like newborns or those with compromised immune systems. Think of it as forming a little team of Avengers to fight germs together!

The Jab Drama

If you’re dreading your baby’s “betrayed” cry after a jab, you’re not alone. No parent enjoys seeing their baby upset, but the benefits far outweigh the brief discomfort. Plus, most babies forget about the needle the second you whip out a bottle or cuddle them (bonus points if you bring along a distraction like their favourite toy).

Pro-tip: You can ease the process by holding your baby close during the shot and speaking to them in a soothing tone. Afterward, a little love—and maybe some baby-friendly paracetamol—can help soothe any crankiness.

What to Expect After Vaccinations

Your baby might experience mild side effects like a low fever, fussiness, or swelling at the injection site. Don’t panic—this is their immune system hard at work! These side effects are typically short-lived and far less severe than the diseases the vaccines protect against.

Keeping Up with the Schedule

In South Africa, the Department of Health provides a vaccination schedule that includes immunisations at birth, six weeks, 10 weeks, 14 weeks, nine months, 12 months, and beyond. It might feel overwhelming to keep track, but most clinics and healthcare providers will guide you through the process. Consider setting reminders or downloading an app to keep you organised.

Debunking the Myths

Yes, we’ve all heard a neighbour or relative who warns against vaccines for some reason that doesn’t add up. The truth? Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and monitoring to ensure they’re safe and effective. The risk of side effects is incredibly low, especially compared to the dangers of diseases they prevent.

So, the next time someone says, “What if the vaccines are dangerous?” you can respond, “What’s really dangerous is not vaccinating.”

When you take your baby for their vaccinations, you’re doing more than ticking a box—you’re giving them a shield that could protect them for a lifetime. Sure, there might be a few tears (from both of you), but those tiny arms will grow stronger with every jab. Remember, you’re not just a parent—you’re a superhero. And superheroes always take care of their team.