Geneva, Switzerland – May 21, 2025 – In its latest weekly update, the World Health Organization (WHO) has once again emphasized the crucial role of vaccination in protecting children, addressing common parental concerns about childhood immunity and vaccine safety. The update directly tackles questions such as whether children should “just get the disease” and if vaccines can “overwhelm a child’s immune system.”

The WHO underscores a fundamental truth: children are constantly exposed to a vast array of microbes – bacteria, viruses, and other tiny organisms – found in their food, environment, and even within their own bodies. This continuous exposure is a natural and vital part of developing their immune system.

However, the key question, as highlighted by the WHO, is “how can children safely develop immunity to the most dangerous germs?” The answer, resoundingly, is through vaccination.

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The organization firmly states that:

* Vaccines protect against serious diseases: Rather than relying on natural infection, which can lead to severe illness, lifelong complications, or even death, vaccines offer a controlled and safe way for a child’s immune system to learn to recognize and fight off dangerous pathogens.

* Kids can safely handle multiple vaccines: The notion that vaccines overwhelm a child’s immune system is a misconception. A child’s immune system is incredibly robust and designed to respond to countless antigens daily. The number of antigens in all recommended childhood vaccines combined is significantly less than what a child encounters in their daily environment.

* Timing ensures protection when risk is highest: Childhood immunization schedules are carefully designed to provide protection at the most critical periods, when children are most vulnerable to certain diseases. This strategic timing ensures that immunity is developed precisely when it’s needed most.

The WHO reiterates that vaccination is the safest and most effective method for children to develop immunity to preventable diseases. It’s a proactive measure that safeguards not only individual children but also contributes to “herd immunity,” protecting those who are too young to be vaccinated or who have compromised immune systems.

As outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases continue to pose a threat in various regions, the WHO’s clear and consistent message serves as a vital reminder of the power of prevention and the enduring importance of robust immunization programs worldwide.