off and prevent us from becoming infected. Immunizations essentially prevent diseases.” “Being up to date on vaccinations is important because it keeps the child protected from serious diseases and their complications. Due to widespread vaccination, we don’t even see certain diseases anymore,” Dr. Diep continues. “An example of this is chicken pox. Prior to the chicken pox vaccine, almost every child had the chicken pox. Nowadays, this is a rare occurrence, and some newer physicians have never even seen a child with chicken pox.” While an immunization might not be the child’s favorite part about a visit to their healthcare provider, typically symptoms are minimal and can be soothed with some extra care – and a colorful bandage. Expands Dr. Diep, “Common reactions include fever and pain at the injection site, head and neck area (including eyes, ears, nose and mouth), listening to the heart and lungs, listening and examining the abdomen, reflex and strength testing, and checking the skin,” continues Dr. Diep. “The exam may include an examination of the private areas, which is a very sensitive topic, but it is an important part of the exam as it allows us as physicians to check for sexual maturity; this allows us to predict and discuss sensitive topics such as puberty.” What are immunizations / vaccinations and why are they important? “In general, immunizations are little parts of a virus or a bacteria (usually inactivated and killed) that trigger our bodies to generate a response against that specific virus or bacteria,” depicts Dr. Diep. “Because our bodies are already prepared, when we encounter that specific virus or bacteria, our bodies know how to fight it Back-to-school annual physicals and immunizations are crucial for ensuring children’s health and well-being as they return to the classroom. “Dr. Vinson Diep offers further insight into these three state‐mandated school health requirements.” 144 HAWAII PARENT May/June 2024
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