Vaccinations can help to prevent disease, both individually and amongst groups of people. Since the introduction of vaccination programs, diseases such as polio and small pox have become rare.
Before a child is 2 years old, he or she should have had 5 immunization appointments. To check Saskatchewan’s recommended immunization schedule, go to www.saskatchewan.ca.
During pregnancy, certain vaccines are given to reduce the risk of the baby acquiring disease during and after birth. Women should talk with their healthcare provider about recommended immunizations before pregnancy, during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Available information that is based in theory and not evidence has led to a significant amount of unwarranted worry about vaccine safety among parents. This theory-based information is not based on facts or credible research evidence. This type of information has led to myths surrounding the risk of immunizations. As a result, some parents are hesitant to immunize their children, delay vaccinations, or refuse vaccinations.
The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute encourages parents to use evidence-based information to learn about vaccine safety and effectiveness. Evidence-based information is supported by conclusive research data. Healthcare professionals make decisions and recommendations based on valid evidence-based information that has been repeatedly tested by researchers with expertise in the field. Evidence does not support any link between vaccines and outcomes such as autism, multiple sclerosis, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Parents can receive evidence-based information from healthcare providers (e.g. family doctors and nurses) and reputable websites such as: