[Vaccination in childhood. Indications towards change]

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.