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Parents Can Catch Up on Missed Childhood Vaccinations

From Republika · (17m ago) Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Parents can catch up on missed childhood vaccinations through a process called catch-up immunization, consulting a pediatrician for proper timing.
  • This WHO-supported method is crucial for preventing severe diseases like polio and measles, especially with recent outbreaks in Indonesia.
  • Experts emphasize vaccination as a long-term investment in a child's health, highlighting herd immunity's importance and the dangers posed by vaccine hesitancy.

As parents in Indonesia, we understand the anxieties surrounding childhood vaccinations. The recent measles outbreaks, declared as extraordinary events (Kasus Luar Biasa), underscore a critical public health challenge. While the government and health organizations like the Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) advocate for comprehensive immunization, the persistent issue of vaccine hesitancy remains a significant barrier to achieving herd immunity.

Bisa banget (dikejar pemberian vaksinnya), itu namanya catch-up immunization. Jadi vaksinasi kejar, jadi misalnya kita kasih di kiri dan kanan sekaligus. Di kiri DPT, di kanan PCV. Besoknya lagi (vaksin) campak begitu

— dr. Attila Dewanti, Sp.A, Subsp. Neuro (K)Explaining the catch-up immunization process.

This article from Republika highlights a vital solution: catch-up immunization. It reassures parents that it's never too late to protect their children. By consulting with pediatricians, parents can ensure their children receive the necessary vaccines, even if they've fallen behind the national schedule. This approach, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), is essential for preventing severe illnesses and safeguarding our communities.

Kita mencegah lebih baik daripada mengobati, ya. Pencegahan itu sangat penting karena dengan memberi vaksinasi akan mengurangi sebuah penyakit menjadi berat

— dr. Attila DewantiHighlighting the importance of preventive healthcare through vaccination.

Dr. Attila Dewanti, a pediatric specialist, emphasizes that vaccination is not just a medical procedure but a long-term investment in a child's health. It builds crucial immunity against dangerous viruses. The current measles surge serves as a stark reminder of what happens when herd immunity falters due to a segment of the population refusing vaccines. Our collective health depends on widespread participation, and catch-up immunization offers a practical pathway for those who have missed out.

Masalahnya adalah orang-orang yang antivaksin, itulah yang membuat kita jadi ada ledakan kasus seperti ini. Karena nggak semuanya tervaksin kan

— dr. AtillaAddressing the impact of vaccine hesitancy on public health.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.