Few topics in pediatric medicine generate as many questions from parents as vaccinations. At Pinnacle Family Medicine, we welcome every one of those questions. Our job is to give you the evidence-based information you need to make confident decisions about your child's health.
The CDC Recommended Schedule
The childhood immunization schedule is developed by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is based on decades of safety data from millions of children and is updated annually as new evidence emerges.
Key vaccines in the childhood schedule include:
- DTaP — Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). Given at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months, with a booster at 4-6 years.
- IPV — Inactivated polio vaccine. Given at 2, 4, 6-18 months, and 4-6 years.
- MMR — Measles, mumps, and rubella. Given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
- Varicella — Chickenpox. Given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
- Hepatitis B — Given at birth, 1 month, and 6 months.
- PCV15/PCV20 — Pneumococcal vaccine. Given at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months.
- HPV — Given at ages 11-12 (can start at age 9). Prevents multiple cancers later in life.
Common Questions We Hear
Can we spread them out? The recommended schedule is designed to protect children at the ages when they are most vulnerable. Delaying vaccines leaves children unprotected during critical windows. That said, we understand this is a concern for some families. We are happy to discuss the schedule in detail and explain the reasoning behind the timing.
Are combination vaccines safe? Yes. Combination vaccines (like Pediarix, which combines DTaP, IPV, and Hep B) reduce the total number of injections while providing the same protection. They undergo the same rigorous safety testing as individual vaccines.
What about side effects? The most common side effects are mild — soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, and fussiness. These typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare and are monitored by multiple federal surveillance systems.
Staying on Track
Arizona requires certain vaccinations for school and childcare enrollment. Our patient portal tracks your child's immunization record and will alert you when vaccines are due. If your child has fallen behind schedule, we can create a catch-up plan to get them current as quickly and safely as possible.
Questions? Ask Us
We would rather spend 30 minutes answering your vaccine questions than have a child miss a critical immunization. Bring your questions — we have the evidence, and we have the time.