From the very moment a baby is born, safeguarding their health becomes the most important mission for every parent. With advances in medical science, in addition to government-funded vaccines, a range of self-paid vaccines is now available to further strengthen protection and build a more comprehensive immune defense for children.

This is particularly important during the preschool years, when children become more active and are exposed to a wider range of environments, increasing their risk of infection. Early vaccination planning can effectively reduce the likelihood of severe illness and complications.

Why Is the Preschool Period a Critical Window for Vaccine Enhancement?
Preschool children frequently attend daycare centers, kindergartens, and public places. Group settings increase exposure to infections transmitted via droplets and contact. Respiratory viruses, gastrointestinal viruses, and invasive bacterial infections can spread rapidly within a short period of time.

Because young children’s immune systems are still developing, infections often present with more pronounced symptoms than in adults and may progress to severe illness. Therefore, in addition to completing routine government-funded immunizations, supplementing with self-paid vaccines can provide broader and more comprehensive protection.



Key Vaccines: Additional Considerations
Enhanced Respiratory Protection
RSV Monoclonal Antibody (Beyfortus)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of respiratory infections in infants and young children, especially during the autumn and winter seasons. It can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia, sometimes requiring hospitalization.

Monoclonal antibodies provide passive immunity, and a single dose can offer protection for at least five months. This is particularly suitable for preterm infants and those with underlying cardiopulmonary conditions or other high-risk factors.

20-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV20)
PCV20
Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause pneumonia, otitis media, bacteremia, and even meningitis. Compared to earlier versions, this updated vaccine covers more serotypes, reducing the risk of invasive disease.

It is especially worth discussing with a physician for children who frequently experience respiratory infections or have a history of recurrent otitis media.



Prevention of Severe Disease
Enterovirus 71 Vaccine
Enteroviruses are seasonally epidemic in Taiwan. While most cases are mild, Enterovirus 71 can invade the central nervous system, leading to severe complications such as encephalitis and myocarditis.

Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of progression to severe disease and is particularly recommended for children under 5 years of age.

Meningococcal Group B Vaccine (Bexsero)
Bexsero
Although meningococcal infections are rare, they can progress rapidly and lead to sepsis or meningitis with high mortality. The Group B vaccine protects against invasive strains.

It is especially beneficial for children who travel internationally or may live in dormitory settings in the future.



Optimizing Protection and Reducing Vaccine Burden
Hexavalent (6-in-1) Vaccine
This combination vaccine integrates multiple antigens into a single injection, reducing the number of shots required and improving convenience and adherence. Booster doses at 18 months also help maintain hepatitis B antibody levels and reduce clinic visits.

Oral Rotavirus Vaccine
Rotavirus vaccine
Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea and dehydration in infants. This oral vaccine requires no injection and effectively prevents severe gastroenteritis and hospitalization.

Second Dose of Varicella Vaccine
Varicella vaccine
Some children may still experience “breakthrough infections” after the first dose. Administering a second dose between ages 4 and 6 significantly reduces infection rates and disease severity.



Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are all self-paid vaccines necessary?
Not every child needs all self-paid vaccines. Decisions should be individualized based on the child’s health status, family history, living environment, and level of social exposure, with evaluation by a pediatrician.

Q2: Can multiple vaccines be given at the same time?
Most vaccines can be administered simultaneously according to recommended schedules without increasing the risk of side effects. In fact, this helps establish protection earlier. However, the schedule should still be planned by a physician.

Q3: What should I do if my child develops a fever after vaccination?
Mild fever or local redness and swelling are normal immune responses. Ensure adequate hydration and monitor the child’s activity level. Seek medical attention if high fever persists, activity decreases, or unusual symptoms develop.



Three Principles for Building a Complete Protection Network
· Follow the recommended schedule: Do not delay vaccinations during the optimal protection window.

· Monitor and boost immunity when needed: Some vaccines require booster doses for long-term protection.

· Maintain healthy habits: Hand hygiene, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are essential for immune health.



Physician’s Reminders
· Always have your child’s current health condition evaluated before vaccination. Postpone vaccination if there is fever or an acute illness.

· Bring the Children Health Handbook to document each vaccination date and batch number.

· Monitor post-vaccination reactions: mild fever, local swelling, or irritability may occur but usually resolve within a few days.

· Inform your physician if your child has underlying conditions, was born prematurely, or has immune-related concerns.

A child’s health is the most precious gift parents can provide. Through evidence-based vaccination planning and professional medical evaluation, we can build a stronger and more comprehensive protective shield for every child.

Prevention is always better than cure. Let us work together to safeguard each step of a child’s growth—so they can explore the world with confidence and grow up healthy and happy.