Childhood Vaccines: Myths, Facts, and What Parents Should Know in 2025

Vaccines are one of the most important tools in modern medicine. Thanks to them, millions of lives have been saved, and diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria have become rare in much of the world. However, despite scientific advances and proven efficacy, many myths and fears about childhood vaccines persist — and with the internet, they spread faster than the viruses themselves.

In 2025, with new vaccines, updated immunization schedules, and a world more alert to infectious diseases, it’s essential that parents stay informed. This article outlines the key facts, false beliefs, and crucial updates regarding childhood vaccination.

✅ Why Are Vaccines So Important?

Vaccines train the immune system to recognize and fight infectious agents without causing illness. They’re like practice drills that prepare the body to respond if it ever encounters the real pathogen.

Benefits of childhood vaccination include:

• Protecting children from serious and potentially fatal diseases
• Reducing outbreaks and controlling epidemics
• Creating herd immunity — protecting those who can’t be vaccinated (e.g., infants, immunocompromised individuals)
• Preventing long-term complications from infections (like hearing loss after measles or infertility after mumps)

❌ Common Myths — and What Science Says

1. “Vaccines cause autism”

This myth originated from a fraudulent 1998 study — which has been thoroughly debunked. No vaccine causes autism.

2. “Children receive too many vaccines”

The vaccination schedule is carefully designed to offer protection at the right times. The child’s immune system can handle multiple vaccines simultaneously.

3. “These diseases are gone, so there’s no need to vaccinate”

Diseases like measles and whooping cough have resurfaced in countries with low vaccination rates. The only way to keep them away is to maintain high coverage.

4. “Vaccines have dangerous side effects”

The most common side effects are mild (arm soreness, low fever). Serious reactions are extremely rare and treatable — and far less risky than the diseases themselves.

📅 What Changed in the 2025 Vaccination Schedule?

Portugal’s National Vaccination Program (PNV) is free, universal, and regularly updated based on the best scientific evidence.

Updates and additions in 2025 include:

• RSV vaccine for infants — helps prevent bronchiolitis and pneumonia
• HPV vaccine reinforcement for boys — broader eligibility in 2025
• Hexavalent combination vaccine (against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, polio, and Hib), now with more spaced-out doses
• Booster doses of meningococcal B and ACWY vaccines

💬 What Should Parents Ask Their Doctor?

• Is my child’s vaccination schedule up to date?
• Are optional vaccines (like flu or rotavirus) recommended?
• How can I ease post-vaccination discomfort?
• What are signs after a vaccine that require medical attention?

🤝 Fighting Fear with Facts

The best weapon against misinformation is open dialogue with healthcare professionals. Be wary of viral posts or videos lacking scientific backing. Always rely on official sources such as:

• Directorate-General of Health (DGS)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Trusted pediatricians and nurses

Conclusion: Vaccination Is an Act of Love and Protection

Vaccinating your child not only protects them but also the community. In 2025, with ongoing outbreaks and emerging viral threats, vaccination remains one of the safest and most responsible choices a parent can make.

💡 If in doubt, schedule an appointment through Misericórdias Saúde. Accurate information saves lives.