Protecting Our Children: The Importance of Vaccines

Kevin O'Brien • September 4, 2026

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect children from serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.

Diseases such as measles, whooping cough, meningitis, polio, and influenza can cause significant illness, hospitalization, and, in some cases, long-term complications. Vaccinating your child not only helps protect them, but also helps protect babies who are too young to receive certain vaccines and children and adults who may have medical conditions that make them more vulnerable to infections. At West Orlando Pediatrics, we strongly believe in the importance of immunizations and follow the evidence-based vaccination recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).


The Measles Outbreak: A Reminder That Vaccines Matter

The recent increase in measles cases across the United States is an important reminder of why keeping children vaccinated is so important. As of 7/30/26, the United States has reported approximately 2,371 confirmed measles cases this year. This already well exceeds the 2,288 confirmed cases nationwide in 2025 and 285 cases reported in 2024. Measles is extraordinarily contagious, and outbreaks can spread quickly when vaccination rates fall. The good news is that measles is preventable, and the MMR vaccine provides highly effective protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Keeping your child's vaccines up to date is one of the best ways to protect your family and our community.


Flu Season Is Coming

We are also preparing for the upcoming influenza season. This year's influenza vaccine is now in stock at West Orlando Pediatrics! Flu can be more than just a bad cold, particularly for young children and those with certain underlying medical conditions. Annual flu vaccination remains an important part of protecting your child and family during the fall and winter months. We will also be offering a Saturday morning flu shot clinic in October to make it easier for busy families to get their children vaccinated. We will provide additional details about the date and scheduling as the clinic approaches.


If your child is due for routine vaccines or you have questions about whether your child's immunizations are up to date, please contact West Orlando Pediatrics. We are happy to review your child's vaccine record, answer your questions, and help make sure your child has the protection they need to stay healthy. Following the AAP's recommended immunization schedule is an important part of giving every child the healthiest possible start.

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