Essential Guide to Chickenpox and MMR Vaccines for Your Baby

Q: Essential Guide to Chickenpox and MMR Vaccines for Your Baby

Hello： 1. <br>The Taoyuan Health Department offers free varicella (chickenpox) vaccinations; however, like other vaccines, there is an additional registration fee of approximately NT$120. <br>2. <br>Currently, the free varicella vaccine can only be administered to children who ar

Regarding the varicella vaccine and the MMR vaccine?

Hello, my baby just turned one year old.
I would like to ask: 1.
Does your hospital provide free varicella (chickenpox) vaccinations? 2.
If the free varicella vaccine is consistently out of stock, is it necessary to pay out of pocket for the varicella vaccine? 3.
Does your hospital offer the varicella vaccine for a fee? How many doses are required? What is the cost per dose? 4.
Is my baby eligible for the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine at this age? 5.
Your pediatric website states that group vaccinations can only be administered on the first Monday afternoon of the month.
Does that mean there is only one opportunity per month? For May, is it on May 5th (Monday)? 6.
Do I need to make an appointment with the doctor in advance for the MMR vaccination? Thank you.

Qì'é māmā, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/04/20

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: 1.
The Taoyuan Health Department offers free varicella (chickenpox) vaccinations; however, like other vaccines, there is an additional registration fee of approximately NT$120.
2.
Currently, the free varicella vaccine can only be administered to children who are at least 15 months old.
There is no recent outbreak, and it is not recommended to pay out-of-pocket for the varicella vaccine just after the child turns one year old.
3.
The Taoyuan Health Department does not offer a self-paid varicella vaccine at this time.
4.
The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is suitable for infants aged 12 to 15 months.
5.
MMR vaccinations can be administered collectively on the first Monday of each month, both in the morning and afternoon.
Please note that on May 5th (week 1), MMR vaccinations will be available for collective administration in both sessions.
6.
There is no need to make an appointment with a doctor prior to receiving the MMR vaccine; however, making an appointment in advance is advisable to avoid long wait times.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Health Department Hospital.

Reply Date: 2008/04/20

More Info

When it comes to vaccinations for your baby, particularly the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and chickenpox vaccines, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
1. Availability of Chickenpox Vaccine: Many hospitals and clinics do provide free vaccinations, including the chickenpox vaccine, but availability can vary. It's best to contact your local health department or pediatric clinic to inquire about the current status of the chickenpox vaccine supply. If the free vaccine is consistently out of stock, you may want to consider paying for it to ensure your child is vaccinated on time.
2. Self-Paying for Chickenpox Vaccine: If the free chickenpox vaccine is unavailable, getting the vaccine through private means is a reasonable option. The chickenpox vaccine is typically administered in two doses. The first dose is given between 12-15 months of age, and the second dose is given between 4-6 years of age. The cost of the vaccine can vary widely depending on the provider, so it’s advisable to check with local clinics or hospitals for pricing.

3. MMR Vaccine Timing: Your baby, having just turned one, is indeed at the right age to receive the MMR vaccine. The first dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended between 12-15 months of age, with a second dose typically given between 4-6 years of age. It’s crucial to ensure that your child receives this vaccine to protect against these serious diseases.

4. Scheduling Vaccinations: Many clinics have specific days and times for administering vaccines, which can sometimes limit availability. If your clinic states that vaccinations are only given on the first Monday of the month, it’s important to plan accordingly. For instance, if May 5th is the first Monday, that would be the day to schedule your appointment for the MMR vaccine.

5. Appointment Requirements: It is generally advisable to make an appointment for vaccinations, especially for the MMR vaccine, to ensure that the clinic has the vaccine available and to minimize wait times. Some clinics may allow walk-ins, but calling ahead can help confirm availability and streamline the process.

In summary, it’s essential to stay informed about the vaccination schedule and availability for both the chickenpox and MMR vaccines. Vaccinations are a critical part of your child’s health and development, protecting them from potentially serious diseases. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or local health department for guidance. They can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding vaccine availability, scheduling, and any other concerns you may have.

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