Immunizations
Immunizations (vaccines, needles, shots or boosters) are a safe and effective way to keep us healthy. They are designed to protect us from many harmful infectious/communicable diseases. Manitoba Health has a schedule of vaccines that are to be started in infancy and will provide immunity that can last a life time. Keep in mind that immunizations are most effective if given at the appropriate times and ages as indicated by Manitoba Health. Here is a list of the childhood diseases that we currently provide immunizations against:
- Mumps
- Measles
- Pneumococcal and meningococcal diseases
- Rotavirus
- Rubella
- Chickenpox
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis
- Polio
- Tetanus
- Haemophilus Influenza type B
- Hepatitis B
- Human Papillomavirus
For more information about these vaccines, read these Fact Sheets.
Immunizations are an important part of a healthy pregnancy. They help protect you and your baby against serious diseases. Please click HERE for more information.
Manitoba’s Immunization Schedule also has details on when to immunize your child.
Every fall, the “flu” shot or Influenza vaccination is offered to everyone, 6 months and older as a protection against Influenza. The flu virus mutates or changes every year so it is important to get the Flu shot every fall. Please speak to your health care provider about getting the Flu shot.
Read Manitoba Health’s Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.
Are Immunizations Safe?
Yes, immunizations are safe. Childhood immunizations have saved millions of lives by eliminating many serious diseases. It is important that parents have accurate information from reliable sources as immunizations are a very important aspect of your child’s health. Immunize Canada has prepared an excellent resource on sources of reliable information that we encourage you to read.
Your health care provider can also answer any questions you may have as well. The Canadian Paediatric Society has produced a book for parent’s which has good information about vaccines: Your Child’s Best Shot: A Parent’s Guide to Vaccination. This book is available at most book stores or can be accessed through your local public health office. For more information on vaccine safety, check out the Canadian Paediatric Society’s website. They also have a publication called Vaccination and your Child.
Other credible information can be found through Immunize Canada where you can Learn About Immunizations. Immunize Canada even has a free App you can download to keep track of immunizations and learn more on your phone or mobile device. The Public Health Agency of Canada also has excellent information including A Parent’s Guide to Immunization and a free 32 page book all about Immunizations.
Easing Your Baby’s Discomfort During Painful Procedures
Painful procedures such as blood tests or immunizations can cause babies to feel pain in the same way that adults do.
Signs of pain/discomfort:
- Crying
- Frowning
- Increased heart rate
- Increased breathing rate
- Increased blood pressure
Breastfeeding your baby or holding your baby close such as skin-to-skin helps to decrease and relieve your baby’s pain. This works best if mothers or caregivers hold their babies close for several minutes before and after the procedure.
Breastfeeding during immunization poster
Skin-to-Skin Is Easy. Here’s how:
- Take off your baby’s blankets and clothing. Leave a diaper on
- Move clothing away from your chest and tummy
- Hold your baby, facing you, against your chest or tummy
- You can put a blanket over you and your baby and the health care provider will move the blanket away from the baby’s thigh
For more information visit:
https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/uploads/handout_images/3p_babiesto1yr_e.pdf
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/immunization-experience-child
Book an Appointment
Contact your Public Health Nurse or Community Health Nurse soon after your baby’s birth to book an appointment for your baby’s first immunizations at 2 months of age. Contact your nearest Community Health Centre or Nursing Station to learn more.