Immunizations
 Immunizations protect your child from certain potentially serious diseases. Many of these illnesses occur in the first years of the infant`s life, so it is of utmost importance to immunize your child early and keep to a regular schedule. You can immunize your child at public health clinics, at a minimal cost or at your doctor`s chamber.
The first vaccination, your baby receives, is an injection called DPT. This injection provides combined immunization against diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis), and tetanus. A polio vaccine is also given in conjunction with DPT. Later, measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines may be given, either alone or in combination. You need to keep a record of your child`s immunizations. These records will be handy throughout life. Your child`s school may require them. If by any chance, the immunization schedule is interrupted, resume it where you left off in the series. Do not start afresh.
Possible Reactions
Your baby may have one or more reactions to these vaccines. Your baby may experience local pain and tenderness at the injection site. Fever, irritability, and loss of energy and appetite are also commonly observed. In case of measles vaccine, a rash may occur six to twelve days after the injection. Treatment may be prescribed by your doctor, if he thinks fit. In case your child exhibits severe reaction, such as inconsolable crying or high fever, be sure to notify your doctor immediately.
When to Call the Doctor
If your infant`s health worries you and a niggling fear prevails in your mind, go ahead and consult your doctor. You should also be prepared before you call your doctor. Jot down on paper all the symptoms that worry you.
Be ready to answer the following questions your doctor may ask you
Physical symptoms: Abnormal temperature, breathing difficulties, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fever wet diapers rash.
Behavioral symptoms: Loss of appetite, listlessness, unusual fussiness or irritability. Drop in activity level or behavioral change.
Home treatment: How has your child responded to your remedies? Have you given your child any medications? What and when?
General considerations: Has there been recently exposed to illiness? Is anyone at home sick?
Have a paper and pencil handy to write down your doctor`s suggestions. Also, know your pharmacist`s phone number, as the doctor may want to call in a prescription.
Colds
 Cold is common occurrence among infants. The symptoms are, stuffy nose with a rattle sound. Cold may also be associated with a very runny nose, a fussier than usual infant and a slight fever. The infant may have trouble in eating and sleeping.
To minimize the chance of a cold, the entry of visitors is to be restricted for a very young infant. People suffering from colds should stay away. You may consult your physician for your baby`s first cold. He or she may suggest a cool mist vaporizer, sleeping in a semi reclined position by elevating his head with a pillow, clearing the nostrils gently with a bulb syringe, using nose drops or giving medication.
Medications
How to Give Medications or Vitamins
Put medicine between the baby`s cheek and gum, let infant suck medication.
Insert a dropper of medicine next to a pacifier on which your baby is sucking.
Pour medication into an empty bottle nipple; flush emptied nipple with water to ensure that the baby has received a full dose.
Note: It is not advisable to mix medicines in juice or water. If your baby refuses to finish his bottle, you will be unsure of the amount of medicine your baby has received.
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