June 9, 2025 – As families gear up for a season of sunshine, travel and outdoor fun, one important item should be on every parent’s summer checklist: making sure your child is up to date on their vaccines. Routine childhood vaccines are a simple, proven way to help keep your child safe.
Why Vaccines Are Especially Important in the Summer
With kids heading off to camp, joining group activities or traveling with family and friends, the summer months bring more opportunity for exposure to contagious illnesses.
“Summer means kids are spending time in new environments at camps, playgrounds, or family gatherings where they’re interacting with more people,” says Uzma N. Hasan, MD, Division Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, part of the Children’s Health Network at RWJBarnabas Health. “This can increase the risk of getting or spreading infectious diseases, many of which are preventable with vaccines.”
These routine vaccines are recommended to keep children healthy and safe:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Polio
- Hepatitis A & B
- Influenza (annual flu shot)
Vaccines are also important when children will be traveling to areas where certain illnesses may be more common. If your family is traveling internationally this summer, your child may need additional vaccines based on your destination. Be sure to talk with your pediatrician early to allow time for any required doses.
The Growing Impact of Vaccine Hesitancy
Despite the overwhelming scientific evidence supporting vaccine safety and effectiveness, in recent years, a decline in childhood vaccination rates has led to outbreaks of illnesses like measles, whooping cough, and flu. These diseases can be especially dangerous for young children or those with weakened immune systems.
“It’s important to remember that childhood vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety and continuously monitored by trusted public health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics, says Dr. Hasan. “Vaccines not only protect your child from serious illness, but they also reduce the risk of spreading diseases to others, especially those who are too young or medically unable to be vaccinated. Most side effects are mild and short lived, like a sore arm or a low grade fever, while the protection lasts much longer.”
Protect Their Summer and Their Future
If you’re unsure or have questions about vaccines, start a conversation with your child’s doctor, Dr. Hasan suggests. “Pediatricians remain the most trusted source of information when it comes to your child’s health. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and keep the conversation going over time.”
As you pack the sunscreen and plan your adventures, don’t forget to prioritize your child’s health. Before the busy season begins, take a moment to check in with your child’s doctor. A quick visit now can help prevent illness, avoid disruptions, and give you peace of mind that your child is ready for everything summer brings. Vaccinating your child is one of the simplest ways to help ensure they stay healthy and active all season long.
Learn more about New Jersey’s most comprehensive Children’s Health network.