Vaccines
Vaccines: myths and facts
By Dr. P. Rajesh Khanna, MBBS, MD (Paediatrics) · TSMC Reg. No. 58018 · Updated October 2026
It is natural for parents to have questions about vaccines. These are the most common ones.
Vaccines are among the safest and most effective ways to protect children. Here are common worries, and what the evidence shows.
Myth: Vaccines cause autism.
Fact: Large studies of millions of children have found no link between vaccines and autism.
Myth: Natural infection is better than a vaccine.
Fact: Natural infection can cause serious illness, disability or death. Vaccines give protection without the risk of the disease itself.
Myth: Too many vaccines overload the immune system.
Fact: A baby's immune system deals with thousands of germs every day. The antigens in vaccines are a tiny fraction of that.
Myth: A mild fever or a sore arm means the vaccine harmed my child.
Fact: Mild fever, irritability and soreness are common signs that the body is building protection. They usually settle in a day or two. Paracetamol is not needed routinely after a vaccine; give it only if your child has fever or pain, in the dose your doctor advises. Serious reactions are rare; ask your doctor what to watch for.
Myth: Diseases are rare now, so vaccines are not needed.
Fact: They are rare because of vaccination. When fewer children are vaccinated, these diseases come back.
Myth: A breastfed baby does not need vaccines.
Fact: Breast milk helps, but it does not replace vaccination and does not protect against all diseases.
Myth: A child with a cold cannot be vaccinated.
Fact: A minor cold or low-grade fever is usually not a reason to delay. Your doctor will decide if your child is well enough.
Myth: If a dose is missed, the whole schedule must start again.
Fact: No restart is needed. Your doctor will continue from where you left off with a catch-up plan.
What parents can do
- Follow the current immunisation schedule recommended by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP-ACVIP 2025), as advised by your doctor.
- Keep your child's vaccination card safe and bring it to every visit.
- Ask your doctor about any concern before the visit.