Timing is everything. We all know that breast milk offers infant protection against many diseases. Unfortunately, the antibodies passed on from mother to child decline after about a year. This is the main basis for the importance of vaccinations and the timing of administration. Before a child turns 2 they should receive as many as 26 vaccinations. This provides protection against14 diseases. Most of these diseases have been eliminated in the western world. Below is the CDC recommended vaccination schedule for infants born here in the United States.

Note: Here is the link to view the referenced footnotes

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/downloads/child/0-18yrs-schedule.pdf

Though, this seems like a lot of shots, this has been the gold-standard for years. There are many benefits that explain why timing of these vaccinations is so important. To name a few, immunizations can save the child’s life, vaccinations are safe and effective, immunizations protect others in the population, immunizations save the family money and immunizations offer protection to future generations. When babies are removed from the sterile environment of their mother’s womb, they are vulnerable to the many diseases. From that moment on, the child begins the elaborate process of developing an immune system that strengthens each day. Due to the fact that such a rigorous vaccination schedule has proven to be successful, it would behoove parents to comply. Doctors and public health experts do not advise anyone to skip or delay vaccines, as this will leave the child vulnerable to disease for a longer period of time. Parents should discuss any concerns with their child's pediatrician, and physicians are urged to educate and support these findings with research.

References/Resources:

1. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/genrec.pdf
2. http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/admin/storage/providers-role-vacc-admin-storage.html
3. http://www.vaccines.gov/who_and_when/infants_to_teens/