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Doctor Mocked For Requesting Family Members Be Up-To-Date On Vaccines ...

Bringing a newborn into the world is a monumental moment, especially when it's the result of years of IVF. But for one couple on Reddit, the birth of their baby led to some not-so-joyous family drama over a simple request: Make sure your vaccines are up-to-date before you visit.

It seems like common sense, right? After all, newborns are tiny, vulnerable beings, and who wants to risk them catching a nasty illness? But despite both parents being doctors, their request caused a serious family fallout. Relatives unfriended them in a group chat and haven't spoken to them since. Was this a medical move made in the interest of the baby's health, or did these parents go a little overboard?

As anyone in the medical field (or even just a worried parent) knows, newborns should not be exposed to major illnesses, especially in the first month. So when a baby has a heart condition — no matter how mild — the idea of exposing them to common illnesses can feel like setting them up for an unwanted game of russian roulette. Enter the couple, both medical professionals, who decided to request that anyone visiting their baby in the first month be up to date on their Tdap, flu, and COVID vaccines.

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Seems like common sense, right? The vaccines are there to protect against diseases that can literally knock out a newborn, and the couple was simply following expert advice. Sure, the request wasn't exactly an open invitation to a vaccine-free-for-all, but in their eyes, it was the best way to make sure their baby stayed safe and healthy.

And yet, some family members didn't exactly appreciate the reminder to get jabbed. They probably weren't thrilled to hear that their "come meet the baby" invitation came with a "but first, show us your vaccine cards" requirement. You can almost hear the collective sigh of relatives who thought they'd just pop over without a public health screening. But the parents weren't trying to start a medical revolution — they were just trying to protect their kid.

Everyone agreed that the parents were not just justified in their request but absolutely doing the right thing.

The backlash the parents received, with family members leaving group chats and refusing to speak to them, raises an important issue. Family dynamics can be complex, and requests like these can easily be misinterpreted. Some relatives might feel their personal freedoms are being restricted, or they may disagree with the vaccination policy due to their own beliefs about vaccines.

As the dad simply put it, however, "We weren't trying to offend anyone, just protect our baby, especially since she has a mild heart condition and is extra vulnerable right now." There's really nothing more to say. One of the most important roles a parent takes is that of a protector for their child. That's exactly what these parents are doing, and if their extended family doesn't understand that, too bad.

As one commenter wrote, "If I'm being super honest these people would not be allowed around my children at all after this conversation, vaccines or not. I wouldn't trust them to be safe adults to my child. Not giving them preventable diseases is the absolute bare minimum, not mocking a new parent's efforts to keep their kid alive also falls in that category. I would have to seriously consider the value that these people bring to my life vs their attempts to make me feel crazy if I was in your shoes."

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While it's important to respect individual opinions, it's also essential to recognize the parents' right to protect their child. Family members may see this request as an inconvenience, but the parents' primary concern is the health and safety of their baby. March of Dimes noted that the two most important vaccines for anyone in close proximity to a newborn are the flu vaccine and Tdap or whooping cough.

Additionally, the fact that both parents are medical professionals lends weight to their request. As experts in their fields, their understanding of the potential risks involved may have led them to prioritize their baby's health in a way that others who lack that medical knowledge may not fully comprehend. Still, it's clear that some relatives felt hurt or offended by the perceived "demand," rather than understanding the parents' intentions.

In situations like this, finding a balance between health and family relationships can be challenging.

The parents weren't attempting to control anyone's life. They simply wanted to safeguard their baby. However, in a world where public health decisions are often highly politicized, requests like these can feel like a line in the sand for some family members.

So, is the request too much? In terms of safety, no. It's a responsible measure to ensure a newborn's well-being. But the key lies in communication. The parents could have perhaps made more of an effort to explain their reasoning behind the request, framing it not as an imposition but as an essential step in keeping their baby safe. Similarly, family members should be encouraged to understand the situation from the parents' perspective, even if they don't fully agree with the approach.

Ultimately, the situation highlights the importance of open communication and empathy. While safety should always come first, family members may benefit from understanding the parents' fears and motivations in a way that fosters respect and cooperation rather than division.

The parents were just trying to do what they thought was best for their newborn, while the relatives, who didn't agree with the request, might have felt left out or judged. If anything, this story shows that in the age of vaccines and social distancing, it's tough to please everyone, especially when it comes to family dynamics.

But if everyone could just put aside their pride, get a flu shot (or two), and focus on the adorable baby at the center of it all, this could be a perfect opportunity for the family to come together. After all, there's a newborn to meet, and nothing should stand in the way of cuddles and baby giggles. Any family member unable to see the bigger picture — well, maybe not seeing them isn't such a bad thing.

Erika Ryan is a writer working on her bachelor's degree in Journalism. She is based in Florida and covers relationships, psychology, self-help, and human interest topics.

Make Sure Your Vaccinations Are Up To Date Before Meeting A Newborn - WRAL

There are always a million things to do when you're expecting a new baby. Make sure your list includes getting family and caregivers up to date on their vaccines.

"Everyone who is going to be in contact with the baby should have all the standard vaccines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC," says UNC Health pediatrician Heather W. Williams, MD. "It's one way we can help protect babies until they gradually get vaccinated against these diseases."

Newborns are too young to be vaccinated against illnesses such as whooping cough, influenza and COVID-19. If they contract a viral or bacterial illness, they can become much sicker than healthy older children or adults would, and could even die. That's why, during a baby's first two or three months, it's especially critical to take steps to keep them healthy.

If you are pregnant, ask your doctor which vaccines you should receive and which ones you should not get until after you've given birth.

People who will be around the baby also need to be vaccinated, including fathers and other parents, siblings, grandparents, babysitters and child care workers.

Here are the vaccines Dr. Williams says are critical:

Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap and DTaP) shots

These vaccines generally come in one shot, called Tdap for adolescents and adults and DTaP for babies and young children. Pertussis, also called whooping cough, poses the biggest threat to newborns. Babies with whooping cough may struggle to breathe and turn blue, and they can't get their first DTaP dose until they are 2 months old.

"We really want to avoid having newborns exposed to whooping cough," Dr. Williams says. "Newborns are likely to get really sick, and there's a risk of respiratory distress and even death."

Pregnant women are advised to get the Tdap shot early in the third trimester, each time they are pregnant, to give their babies some protection before birth.

Family and caregivers should be immunized too. Adults need Tdap boosters every 10 years. Check with your doctor if you don't remember the last time you had a shot.

Flu and COVID-19 shots

Pregnant women can receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccines and pass some immunity on to their babies in utero. Other caregivers should get vaccinated to reduce the likelihood that they'll expose a newborn to the flu or COVID-19. Babies cannot receive these vaccines until they are 6 months old.

"Babies are generally more vulnerable to all respiratory viruses, like the flu," Dr. Williams says.

Get a flu shot every fall when the seasonal version comes out, and make sure you're up to date on your initial COVID-19 shots and boosters. Dr. Williams recommends that parents and others who will be in contact with a newborn check with their primary care doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to find the latest recommendations.

Other ways to keep a newborn healthy

Even if everyone around the baby has been vaccinated, it's a good idea to make sure people wash their hands thoroughly before holding the baby or anything that is going to touch the baby, Dr. Williams says.

"Have hand sanitizer nearby and ask visitors to use it before they hold the baby," she says.

It's also reasonable for new parents to ask visitors to wear masks when they hold a newborn, especially during cold and flu season, she says.

Siblings may be the hardest people to get to be cautious, she says.

"They can be very sweet, and they'll naturally want to be involved and be up close, right in the new baby's face," Dr. Williams says. "There's no real way to prevent exposure 100 percent if an older sibling is in day care, for example, but you can do sensible things like hand-washing and encourage the older children to kiss baby on the feet instead of the face."

She doesn't recommend going to extremes, such as isolating an older child if they get sick. Just encourage them to keep their hands washed and possibly wear a mask around the baby. Adults should be extra cautious, too – if you are tending to another child who is sick while also caring for your baby, make sure to wash your hands frequently and wear a mask.

A fever in a newborn is an emergency

If a baby younger than 2 months old gets a fever, they need immediate medical attention.

"Until a baby can get several important vaccines at 2 months, you should be vigilant," Dr. Williams says. "Ask anyone who is sick to wait until they're well to come see the baby. Consider holding off on taking the baby to large indoor public places and events. If newborns and young infants get a fever, it's considered a medical emergency."

Newborns with fevers may be hospitalized so doctors can do tests to see what is causing the fever.

"Babies who are infected can get much sicker than older children and adults, especially with the more invasive bacterial infections," Dr. Williams says. "That's why we are so thorough."

Ensuring that everyone who will be in contact with the baby is up to date on their vaccines and takes other commonsense measures to prevent infections will help your baby have a healthy beginning to life.

"Having a new baby in the house is really a good motivator to get those boosters," Dr. Williams says.

This article was originally posted on UNC Health Talk's website.

Essential Vaccines For Mothers What To Get Before, During, And After Pregnancy - Onlymyhealth

Why Vaccination Matters for Mothers

According to the 2015 study, immunological changes can make women more susceptible to certain infections, increasing the risk of severe outcomes during pregnancy. Vaccinating pregnant women not only protects them from vaccine-preventable diseases but also helps shield the fetus by transferring protective antibodies.

"Certain infections during pregnancy can pose serious risks, such as birth defects, preterm birth, or stillbirth. Vaccines not only protect the mother but also pass immunity to the baby, offering protection during the crucial early months before the baby's immune system matures," explained Dr Sharma.

Vaccination before, during, and after pregnancy plays a key role in reducing the risks associated with infectious diseases. However, it's important to note that not all vaccines are safe during pregnancy, so it's essential to follow medical guidelines on which vaccines to receive and when.

Also Read: Vaccination: Expert Explains What Science Reveals About Their Safety And Effectiveness

Vaccines to Get Before Pregnancy

Before conception is an ideal time for women to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. Some vaccines need to be administered at least a month before pregnancy to be effective, and others may require booster shots. Here are some listed by Dr Sharma:

1. Rubella (German Measles) Vaccine

Rubella is a viral infection that can cause severe birth defects, such as heart problems, hearing loss, and developmental issues. Women, who are not immune to rubella should get the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine at least a month before conceiving. A blood test can determine whether you are immune to rubella or need the vaccine. Getting vaccinated before pregnancy ensures the best protection for the baby.

2. Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

"Chickenpox can be dangerous during pregnancy, causing birth defects or low birth weight in the baby. Women who have never had chickenpox or have not been vaccinated should receive the varicella vaccine before pregnancy. This vaccine is most effective when given at least one month before conception," said Dr Sharma.

3. Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

Women who haven't received the Tdap vaccine within the last 10 years should get vaccinated before pregnancy. The Tdap vaccine protects against whooping cough (pertussis), which can be life-threatening to newborns. It's important to receive the vaccine before pregnancy to ensure the mother is protected and to reduce the risk of passing the infection to the baby.

4. Hepatitis B Vaccine

According to the Office of Research on Women's Health, a baby born to a mother with hepatitis B is most at risk of contracting the virus during delivery. It's important to discuss with your healthcare provider about getting tested for hepatitis B and whether vaccination is recommended.

"Women who are not immune to hepatitis B should receive the vaccine before pregnancy. If a woman is already pregnant, she should get tested for hepatitis B, and vaccination may be recommended based on the results," added Dr Sharma.

Also Read: Hepatitis During Pregnancy: How Does Hepatitis A, B and C Pose A Risk And How To Prevent Liver Inflammation

Vaccines to Get During Pregnancy

Certain vaccines are crucial during pregnancy to safeguard both the mother and the baby. These vaccines are usually given during the second or third trimester when the baby can benefit most from the antibodies passed through the placenta.

1. Tdap Vaccine (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)

The Tdap vaccine is strongly recommended during pregnancy, preferably between 27-36 weeks. It protects the baby from whooping cough, which can be fatal for newborns. "The antibodies from the Tdap vaccine pass through the placenta, offering protection to the baby for the first few months of life when they are most vulnerable. Even if the mother has been vaccinated before, it's important to receive a dose during each pregnancy," said Dr Sharma.

2. Flu Vaccine (Influenza Vaccine)

Pregnant women are at higher risk of complications from the flu, such as pneumonia or preterm labour. Getting the flu vaccine during flu season is important for both maternal and foetal health. The flu vaccine is safe during pregnancy and protects the baby after birth by passing protective antibodies through the placenta. It is recommended for all pregnant women, regardless of trimester, during flu season.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises pregnant women to get a flu vaccine by the end of October, even though the timing of flu seasons can vary. This ensures protection before flu activity starts to rise.

3. COVID-19 Vaccine

With the ongoing pandemic, the COVID-19 vaccine has become an essential part of prenatal care. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, which can lead to complications like preterm birth or low birth weight. The COVID-19 vaccine is considered safe and effective during pregnancy, and it helps protect the mother and the baby from the virus.

4. Hepatitis B Vaccine (if not completed before pregnancy)

"If a woman has not completed the hepatitis B vaccination series before pregnancy, she can continue the series during pregnancy. This is essential to prevent virus transmission during childbirth," advised Dr Sharma.

Vaccines to Get After Pregnancy

After delivery, it's important to continue with vaccination to ensure long-term protection for both mother and baby.

1. Chickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine

If the woman did not receive the varicella vaccine before pregnancy, it should be administered after delivery to ensure immunity. It's safe to get vaccinated while breastfeeding.

2. Rubella Vaccine

If a woman was not immune to rubella before pregnancy, she should receive the rubella vaccine after delivery. However, it's important to wait until after childbirth to get the vaccine, as it is not recommended during pregnancy.

3. Tdap Vaccine

If the mother did not receive the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy, she should get vaccinated immediately postpartum. This will help protect the newborn from whooping cough and prevent the transmission of the disease.

Bottomline

Dr Sharma concluded, "Vaccines are an essential part of prenatal and postnatal care. They protect the mother from infections that could have serious complications during pregnancy, and they also pass immunity to the baby, helping protect the newborn during the critical early months. By staying updated with recommended vaccines before, during, and after pregnancy, women can help ensure a healthy pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery. It is always an excellent idea to discuss your vaccination schedule with your healthcare provider to ensure you and your baby are safe."

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]

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