Don't Wait for Your Child to Get Sick: Pediatricians at Premier Hospital Surabaya Remind of the Importance of Early Vaccination as an Investment in Children's Health

SURABAYA – Many parents still ask, "Isn't my child healthy? Why does he still need to be vaccinated?" This question demonstrates the persistent belief that vaccines are only necessary when a child is sick. In fact, vaccines are given when a child is healthy to provide protection against disease.

According to Dr. Deddy Iskandar, Sp.A, a pediatrician at Premier Hospital Surabaya, vaccines work like a seatbelt when driving. Their function is not to treat disease, but rather to provide protection if a child is ever exposed to a disease-causing virus or bacteria.

During growth, a child's immune system is still developing, making them more susceptible to various infectious diseases that can cause serious complications. Through vaccination, the body is exposed to weakened germs or specific parts of germs, allowing the immune system to develop antibodies. This way, when a child is one day exposed to the actual virus or bacteria, the body is equipped to fight it.

This protection has been proven to reduce the risk of serious illness, complications, and even death from diseases that could otherwise be prevented through immunization. Although some diseases, such as measles, polio, and whooping cough, are now rarer, they can still occur, especially if immunization coverage in the community declines.

Various diseases that can be prevented through vaccination include Hepatitis B, Tuberculosis (TB), Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough), Tetanus, Polio, Measles and Rubella, Pneumonia, Meningitis and Encephalitis, Influenza, Rotavirus, which causes severe diarrhea, Mumps, Chickenpox, Hepatitis A, Typhus, and Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Some of these diseases have the potential to cause permanent disabilities, impaired growth and development, and even threaten the lives of children if not prevented early.

More than just protecting individuals, vaccination also plays a role in breaking the chain of disease transmission in the community. Children who are fully immunized also help protect more vulnerable groups, such as infants who are not old enough to receive certain vaccines, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The higher the immunization coverage, the lower the chance of disease spreading in the surrounding environment.

The public should not be concerned if their child experiences a mild fever, redness, or pain at the injection site after immunization. These reactions are normal and indicate that the immune system is developing protection. These symptoms generally only last one to two days and can be managed according to a doctor's recommendations. However, the risks of not receiving a vaccine far outweigh these minor side effects.

Doctors also remind parents not to delay immunization schedules simply because their child appears healthy or is concerned about side effects. Each type of vaccine has a predetermined timeframe for optimal protection. Delaying immunization will prolong the period during which the child has not yet developed immunity to a particular disease.

If a missed immunization schedule occurs, parents should not worry, as doctors can schedule catch-up immunizations so that their child's protection is still adequately met.
As parents, exposure to viruses and bacteria cannot always be avoided. However, immunization can prepare a child's body to be more prepared to face various disease risks. Therefore, vaccination is a long-term health investment that provides protection from childhood to adulthood.

Premier Hospital Surabaya provides pediatric vaccination services according to the recommended immunization schedule by medical professionals. In addition to vaccination services, parents can also consult with a pediatrician to receive education on the types of vaccines needed, the appropriate immunization schedule, and to schedule catch-up immunizations if any vaccines are missed. With comprehensive services, Premier Hospital Surabaya is committed to supporting children's growth and development, ensuring they remain healthy and protected from an early age.

"Every vaccine given is a small step that brings significant benefits to a child's future. Don't wait until your child is sick to start protecting them. Complete immunizations according to schedule and consult with a pediatrician to ensure your little one receives optimal protection. At Premier Hospital Surabaya, we are ready to assist parents through consultation and vaccination services tailored to each child's needs," concluded Dr. Deddy Iskandar, Sp.A, Pediatrician at Premier Hospital Surabaya.

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