National Infant Immunization Week is April 27-May 4. To help educate the Campbell County, Wyoming community
on the importance of immunizations, Campbell County Health experts at
the Campbell County Medical Group
Kid Clinic and
Pediatrics Clinic have put together some videos and blog posts.
Making the choice to vaccinate your child is vital for their health and
wellbeing. Even so, getting shots can still be stressful for you and your
little one. Fortunately, these tips from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), can help you support your child before, during and after shots.
- Before going to the doctor, pack a favorite toy and a blanket that your
child uses regularly to comfort them.
- Help children see vaccines as a good thing. Never threaten your child with
shots by saying, “If you misbehave I will have the nurse give you
a shot.” Instead, remind children that vaccines can help keep them healthy.
- For older children, be honest with them and explain that shots can pinch
or sting, but that it won’t hurt for long.
- At the doctor’s office, distract and comfort your child by cuddling,
singing or talking softly.
- Smile and make eye contact with your child. Let them know that everything is OK.
- For older children, point out interesting things in the room to create
distractions.
Sometimes children experience mild reactions from vaccines, such as pain
at the injection site, a rash or fever. These reactions are normal and
will soon go away.
After the shots, pay extra attention to your child for a few days. If you
see something that concerns you, call you doctor.
Remember to schedule your child’s next visit. Staying current with
your child’s immunizations provides the best protection against disease.
Holly Hink, APRN, CPNP, works at the Campbell County Medical Group
Kid Clinic, a school-based pediatric clinic offering medical care for Campbell County,
Wyoming. The clinic serves children ages 2 weeks to 18 years old; and
counseling services for children 4 years old to 21 years old. It is located
at 800 Butler Spaeth Rd., across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church
in Gillette, Wyoming. The Kid Clinic is open Monday-Friday from 8 am-5
pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/kidclinic.
The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between Campbell County Health and
Campbell County School District.