Recently, I took my son for a routine checkup, and, thankfully, it was a typical, uneventful visit. After addressing a minor concern regarding a scaly patch on his toes—nothing more than the result of his sweaty little feet—the nurse came in with his vaccinations. He barely flinched at the first shot, cried a bit at the second, but after some cuddles, we were done and on our way. Simple, right?
I decided to share a moment from our day on my public Instagram account, where I write about parenting. I posted a sweet photo of his hand wrapped around my thumb, captioning it with some light-hearted comments about his growth and the importance of vaccines. I even mentioned how I explain to my kids that while the shots hurt for a moment, they protect them from serious illnesses. I figured it was a harmless post—until the backlash hit.
The comments I received were shocking. I anticipated some skepticism given my use of “#vaccine,” but the volume of negative feedback was surprising. I encountered remarks about the size of my son’s head supposedly indicating autism, skepticism regarding herd immunity, and accusations about the “dangerous chemicals” I was allowing into his body. It left me bewildered—here I was heralding vaccines as a means to prevent diseases like mumps, and people were accusing me of harming my child.
How did we reach a point where strangers on the internet feel entitled to criticize a mother’s informed, research-based choices for her children? Many of the comments urged me to “do my research,” as if I hadn’t already.
My Journey with Vaccines
Let’s clear the air: I once had my own reservations about vaccines. Yes, I questioned them. But I did my homework. I researched multiple sources and consulted with medical professionals who dedicate their lives to this field. My pediatrician, who also has children, would not administer potentially harmful substances to her own kids.
Back in college, I initially avoided the H1N1 vaccine due to concerns about side effects that I had heard online. However, after observing my classmates remain healthy and conducting further research, I eventually got vaccinated to protect myself and others, understanding the responsibility of my future career in healthcare.
Understanding Vaccine Safety
As a parent, the amount of vaccine information available can be overwhelming. I’ve read lists of potential side effects and scrutinized the preservatives used in various vaccines. Contrary to popular belief, some of these preservatives are found in everyday foods in larger quantities. For instance, a pear contains 600 times more formaldehyde than a flu shot. This article provides a well-rounded perspective on vaccine safety, and I encourage you to read it.
So, after thorough consideration, I chose to vaccinate my children. Yes, I sometimes forget to get my flu shot, but that’s more about my busy life than a stance against vaccination.
Why Vaccination Matters
Here’s why I believe in vaccinating: I’m not just preventing minor colds—I’m shielding my kids from severe diseases like polio, measles, and rubella. While their bodies might fight off these infections, the risks of complications like brain infections or paralysis are far too great. I’d rather have them endure a moment of discomfort than face a trip to the ER due to a preventable illness.
We also vaccinate for the sake of those who can’t. I once worked with a young girl who was unable to receive vaccines due to her medical condition. There are many individuals who cannot get vaccinated for various reasons, such as cancer or compromised immune systems. By vaccinating my children, I contribute to herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations including newborns who aren’t old enough to be vaccinated.
I’m not concerned about vaccine preservatives; our bodies naturally filter and process substances. Vaccines need preservatives to remain effective from the lab to the clinic.
Encouragement for Hesitant Parents
To those hesitant about vaccinations, I won’t belittle your concerns. I understand that the information available can be daunting. But I urge you to expand your research beyond biased sources. It’s important to recognize that correlation does not imply causation. If governmental sources like the CDC make you uneasy, consider checking out the World Health Organization or discussing your concerns openly with your healthcare provider. They can help clarify any doubts you may have.
Let’s not forget the historical context: many parents in the past lost their children to diseases that are now preventable. Thousands of children suffered and died from illnesses we now control with vaccines. It’s hard to comprehend the reality of these tragedies when we live in a time of modern medicine.
When I choose to vaccinate, it’s not just for my children’s safety; it’s for the wellbeing of your children too. Nothing anyone says will induce guilt in me for this choice.
So please, refrain from telling me to “do my research.” I have done so—extensively. I hope you will too.
With love,
A concerned mother
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