UI Health Pediatrics

Immunizations & Vaccinations

Immunizations help prevent the contraction and spread of infectious diseases. The Pediatrics Team at UI Health is dedicated to providing safe vaccinations to protect your child's health and well-being.

Immunizations work by introducing a vaccine into the body, usually through a needle injection. The vaccine acts as an infection, creating an immune response where the body releases antibodies to fight the germ. The immune system learns to fight the germ so it can attack if it invades again. Once the immune system has successfully learned to fight the disease, the body has developed "immunity" to it. And since vaccines are made of very small amounts of weak or dead germs, they won't make your child sick.

When Should My Child Get Vaccines?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended immunization schedules for young children (from birth through 6 years old) and preteens and teens (ages 7-18) to protect them early - when they are most vulnerable to being exposed to possibly life-threatening diseases - and throughout their lives.

If your child has missed any shots, you can work with the Pediatrics team to determine the best time to schedule missed or skipped vaccines. If you have If you have concerns about vaccinations, please discuss them with your child's pediatrician.

Schedule a Vaccination Today

Pediatrics at UI Health offers convenient evening and weekend hours to help you make appointments that fit your schedule.

Click here to schedule an appointment, or call 312.996.7416.