Vaccine Facts and Information
Families often have important questions about vaccines, from safety and scheduling to community protection and seasonal concerns. At Rady Children’s Health, our experts are committed to providing clear, science-based guidance you can trust. Below, you’ll find trusted articles and resources, as well as a Frequently Asked Questions section designed to address common concerns and help you make informed decisions for your child’s health.
Straightforward Answers to Common Vaccine Questions
Let’s start with the basics: Why are immunizations so important, both for individual protection and protecting whole populations?
How Do I Know Which Vaccines My Kids Need?
To protect them from many serious and life-threatening diseases, kids should get all the vaccines recommended for them by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other health experts.
When Should My Child Get Vaccinated?
One way to help protect your child from serious diseases is by following the childhood vaccine schedule. This schedule shows what vaccines (immunizations) are given at what age, starting from birth.
What Types of Vaccines Are Available?
Browse our Health Library to learn more about what vaccinations are available for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are vaccines safe for children?
Yes. Vaccines go through rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before they are approved, and they continue to be monitored by the CDC, FDA, and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Our pediatric experts at Rady Children’s follow these trusted guidelines to provide the safest care possible. Vaccines are the safest and most effective way to prevent diseases.
➔ Learn more about vaccines
What is herd immunity, and why does it matter?
Herd immunity happens when enough people in a community are vaccinated, which helps stop diseases from spreading. This protects not only those who receive vaccines but also those who cannot — such as infants or children with weakened immune systems. High vaccination rates are key to keeping everyone safe.
➔ Learn more about herd immunity
Should my child get the flu vaccine every year?
Yes. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, every year. Because flu viruses change from year to year, the vaccine is updated annually to provide the best protection. Vaccination helps reduce illness, hospitalizations, and complications in children.
➔ Learn more about flu shots
What about the COVID-19 vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for children and teens. It reduces the risk of severe illness and helps limit spread in families and communities. All children 6 to 23 months of age should get the COVID-19 vaccine because they are at high risk of hospitalizations and complications even if they are completely healthy. Children older than 2 years should get the vaccine if they have any underlying condition that puts them at higher risk of complications. Talk to your pediatrician.
➔ Learn more about COVID-19 and vaccines
Do vaccines cause autism?
No. Vaccines do not cause autism. This has been studied extensively and disproven. Unfortunately, misinformation online continues to fuel concern. Parents are encouraged to talk with their pediatrician and rely on trusted medical sources.
➔ Learn more about vaccines and autism myths
When might a child need a medical exemption from vaccines?
Medical exemptions are very rare. They are typically only granted if a child has had a severe reaction to a previous dose, or if their immune system is compromised (such as children undergoing cancer treatment). These children depend on those around them being vaccinated.
➔ Learn more about the recommended vaccine schedule
What are the best resources for vaccine information?
Trusted resources for childhood immunizations include the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center and the California Department of Public Health. Your child’s pediatrician can also help guide you to reliable, up-to-date information.
➔ AAP / HealthyChildren.org | Immunization Schedules
➔ California Department of Public Health | Vaccines
➔ Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia | Vaccine Education Center