[Vaccination in childhood. Indications towards change]
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In Germany, BCG vaccination is recommended for all newborns due to evolving epidemiology and new vaccines. Childhood immunization schedules for tetanus, diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio remain crucial.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Public Health
Context:
- Childhood vaccination guidelines are dynamic, influenced by new vaccine development and epidemiological shifts.
- The BCG vaccination is a particularly debated immunization in Germany.
- Regional experiences, such as in northern Bavaria, inform vaccination recommendations.
Purpose:
- To outline current vaccination indications for infants and children in Germany.
- To address the controversial nature of BCG immunization.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for various childhood vaccines.
Summary:
- The BCG vaccination is recommended for all newborn infants in northern Bavaria.
- Routine immunizations against tetanus and diphtheria are essential for all children.
- Combined measles-mumps-rubella vaccines are administered in the second year of life, with rubella vaccination recommended for girls before puberty.
- Oral polio vaccination is necessary for poliomyelitis prevention.
- Smallpox vaccination indications have been revised due to global eradication efforts and legal changes.
Impact:
- Informs healthcare providers and policymakers on updated childhood vaccination strategies.
- Contributes to public health efforts by clarifying essential immunization practices.
- Supports the ongoing debate on vaccination efficacy and necessity in a changing health landscape.
Abstract:
Indications of vaccinations in childhood are changing due to the development of new vaccines and to changes of the epidemiological situation. In Germany one of the most controversial vaccinations is the BCG-immunization. Regarding our own experiences in the northern part of Bavaria we recommend the BCG-vaccination of all newborn infants. Indication of vaccination against tetanus remains unchanged. All children should be immunized against diphtheria. To protect against measles and parotitis epidemica we use the combined measles-parotitis-vaccine in the second year of life. The indication of vaccination against smallpox changed meanwhile due to the changed legal situation and the nearly complete eradication of smallpox in the world. Before puberty all girls should be vaccinated against rubella. To fight poliomyelitis oral vaccination is necessary.