Measles Vaccine for Children: What Parents Need to Know

Measles is one of the most contagious childhood illnesses, but it is also highly preventable with vaccination. At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we help families stay on schedule with safe, effective vaccines that protect children and the community.

What is Measles?

Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can cause fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads across the body.

Measles can lead to complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling, hospitalization, and, in rare cases, death.

How is Measles Prevented?

Measles is prevented with the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Some children may receive the MMRV vaccine, which also includes protection against varicella, also known as chickenpox.

MMR Vaccine Schedule for Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics and CDC recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine for children:

• First dose: 12 through 15 months
• Second dose: 4 through 6 years

Children can sometimes receive the second MMR dose earlier, as long as enough time has passed since the first dose. Your pediatrician can help determine the right timing for your child.

Why the Measles Vaccine Matters

Measles spreads very easily. If one person has measles, up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people nearby may also become infected. Vaccination protects your child and helps protect babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems who may not be able to receive the vaccine.

Measles Vaccine for Travel

Families planning international travel should talk with their pediatrician before leaving. Infants 6 through 11 months old may need an early MMR dose before travel. This early dose does not replace the regular two-dose series given after the first birthday.

Is the MMR Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The MMR vaccine has been carefully studied and is routinely recommended for children. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common Side Effects

• Soreness or redness where the shot was given
• Mild fever
• Mild rash
• Temporary swelling of glands in the cheeks or neck

Serious reactions are rare. Your child’s provider will review health history, allergies, and vaccine timing before giving the vaccine.

Who Should NOT Receive the MMR Vaccine?

Some children may need to delay or avoid the MMR vaccine. This may include children who:

• Have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous MMR dose or vaccine ingredient
• Have a severely weakened immune system
• Are currently moderately or severely ill
• Have certain medical conditions that require special vaccine timing

If you are unsure, your pediatrician can review your child’s medical history and make the safest recommendation.

What If My Child Missed a Dose?

If your child missed an MMR vaccine, they can usually get caught up. Older children and teens who are not fully vaccinated may still need one or two doses, depending on their vaccine history.

You can schedule an appointment with Castle Valley Children’s Clinic to review your child’s immunization record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is measles still a concern?

Yes. Measles still occurs, especially when vaccination rates drop or when unvaccinated travelers bring measles into a community.

Can vaccinated children still get measles?

It is possible, but uncommon. Children who receive two doses of MMR have strong protection against measles.

Can my child get MMR with other vaccines?

In many cases, yes. MMR can often be given during the same visit as other routine childhood vaccines.

Does the MMR vaccine cause autism?

No. Large, well-designed studies have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.

Is MMR required for school?

Most schools require proof of measles vaccination or valid exemption documentation before children attend school.

Partner With Your Pediatrician

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we help parents make confident, informed decisions about childhood vaccines and wellness care. Learn more on our Vaccination Series page.

Schedule an Appointment

Protect your child from measles and other preventable diseases. Book your appointment today at our New Castle or Carbondale locations.

Measles Vaccine for Children: What Parents Need to Know

Measles is one of the most contagious childhood illnesses, but it is also highly preventable with vaccination. At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we help families stay on schedule with safe, effective vaccines that protect children and the community.

What is Measles?

Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can cause fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads across the body.

Measles can lead to complications such as ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, brain swelling, hospitalization, and, in rare cases, death.

How is Measles Prevented?

Measles is prevented with the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Some children may receive the MMRV vaccine, which also includes protection against varicella, also known as chickenpox.

MMR Vaccine Schedule for Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics and CDC recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine for children:

• First dose: 12 through 15 months
• Second dose: 4 through 6 years

Children can sometimes receive the second MMR dose earlier, as long as enough time has passed since the first dose. Your pediatrician can help determine the right timing for your child.

Why the Measles Vaccine Matters

Measles spreads very easily. If one person has measles, up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people nearby may also become infected. Vaccination protects your child and helps protect babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems who may not be able to receive the vaccine.

Measles Vaccine for Travel

Families planning international travel should talk with their pediatrician before leaving. Infants 6 through 11 months old may need an early MMR dose before travel. This early dose does not replace the regular two-dose series given after the first birthday.

Is the MMR Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The MMR vaccine has been carefully studied and is routinely recommended for children. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common Side Effects

• Soreness or redness where the shot was given
• Mild fever
• Mild rash
• Temporary swelling of glands in the cheeks or neck

Serious reactions are rare. Your child’s provider will review health history, allergies, and vaccine timing before giving the vaccine.

Who Should NOT Receive the MMR Vaccine?

Some children may need to delay or avoid the MMR vaccine. This may include children who:

• Have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous MMR dose or vaccine ingredient
• Have a severely weakened immune system
• Are currently moderately or severely ill
• Have certain medical conditions that require special vaccine timing

If you are unsure, your pediatrician can review your child’s medical history and make the safest recommendation.

What If My Child Missed a Dose?

If your child missed an MMR vaccine, they can usually get caught up. Older children and teens who are not fully vaccinated may still need one or two doses, depending on their vaccine history.

You can schedule an appointment with Castle Valley Children’s Clinic to review your child’s immunization record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is measles still a concern?

Yes. Measles still occurs, especially when vaccination rates drop or when unvaccinated travelers bring measles into a community.

Can vaccinated children still get measles?

It is possible, but uncommon. Children who receive two doses of MMR have strong protection against measles.

Can my child get MMR with other vaccines?

In many cases, yes. MMR can often be given during the same visit as other routine childhood vaccines.

Does the MMR vaccine cause autism?

No. Large, well-designed studies have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.

Is MMR required for school?

Most schools require proof of measles vaccination or valid exemption documentation before children attend school.

Partner With Your Pediatrician

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we help parents make confident, informed decisions about childhood vaccines and wellness care. Learn more on our Vaccination Series page.

Schedule an Appointment

Protect your child from measles and other preventable diseases. Book your appointment today at our New Castle or Carbondale locations.

RSV Immunization for Children: What Parents Need to Know

RSV is one of the most common respiratory viruses in children, but for babies and young children, it can sometimes become serious. At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we help families understand RSV prevention, including current immunization options recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

What is RSV?

RSV stands for respiratory syncytial virus. It usually causes cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, sneezing, fever, and decreased appetite. In many older children, RSV is mild. In infants, especially very young babies, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, trouble breathing, dehydration, and hospitalization.

Why RSV Protection Matters for Babies

Babies have smaller airways and developing immune systems, which makes respiratory infections harder on them. RSV can be especially concerning for:

• Infants younger than 6 months
• Babies born prematurely
• Children with chronic lung disease
• Children with certain heart conditions
• Children with weakened immune systems

Even healthy full-term babies can become very sick from RSV, which is why prevention is an important part of infant care.

Is There an RSV Vaccine for Children?

There is not a traditional RSV vaccine given directly to most infants and young children. Instead, babies may be protected through an RSV antibody immunization, such as nirsevimab, or through maternal RSV vaccination during pregnancy.

These options are designed to help protect babies during their first RSV season, when the risk of severe illness is highest.

RSV Immunization Schedule for Infants

RSV immunization is generally recommended for infants younger than 8 months who are born during or entering their first RSV season, especially if the mother did not receive RSV vaccine during pregnancy.

For most of the United States, RSV season typically runs from fall through early spring. Timing may vary based on local RSV activity and your child’s individual health history.

• Infants younger than 8 months: May receive RSV antibody protection before or during RSV season.
• Some children 8 through 19 months: May need protection before their second RSV season if they are at increased risk for severe disease.
• Most children 20 months and older: Do not typically receive infant RSV antibody immunization.

For a full breakdown of vaccine timing, visit the Vaccination Series main page.

How RSV Immunization Works

RSV antibody immunization gives babies ready-made antibodies that help protect them from severe RSV illness. This is different from a traditional vaccine, which teaches the immune system to make its own antibodies over time.

Because babies receive direct antibody protection, RSV immunization can help protect them during the season when they are most vulnerable.

Maternal RSV Vaccine During Pregnancy

Another way to protect babies is through RSV vaccination during pregnancy. When given during the recommended window, the mother passes protective antibodies to the baby before birth. This can help protect the infant during the first months of life.

In most cases, babies do not need both maternal RSV vaccine protection and infant RSV antibody immunization. Your pediatric provider can help determine which option applies to your child.

Is RSV Immunization Safe?

Yes. RSV immunization has been studied and recommended to help reduce the risk of severe RSV disease in infants and certain high-risk young children. As with any immunization, your child’s provider will review age, health history, timing, and eligibility before giving it.

Common Side Effects

• Mild soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Temporary fussiness
• Mild rash

Serious reactions are rare. If your child has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or ingredient, your provider will discuss the safest next step.

Who Should Receive RSV Immunization?

RSV immunization may be recommended for infants younger than 8 months who are born during or entering RSV season. It may also be recommended for some children 8 through 19 months old who are at higher risk for severe RSV illness.

This is especially important for families receiving care at our New Castle pediatric clinic and Carbondale pediatric clinic, where preventative care is a key part of helping children stay healthy.

Who May Need Extra RSV Protection?

Some children are more likely to develop serious RSV illness and may need additional protection before their second RSV season. This may include children with:

• Chronic lung disease of prematurity
• Severe immune system problems
• Severe cystic fibrosis
• Certain high-risk medical conditions

Your pediatrician can help determine whether your child qualifies for RSV immunization based on current recommendations.

Who Should NOT Receive It?

Most eligible infants can safely receive RSV immunization. However, it may be delayed or avoided if:

• Your child has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous RSV antibody product
• Your child is currently moderately or severely ill
• Your child does not meet age or risk-based recommendations

Your provider will help guide the decision based on your child’s age, health, and timing within RSV season.

What If My Child Missed RSV Immunization?

If your child missed RSV immunization at the start of the season, talk with your pediatric provider. Depending on your child’s age, risk factors, and local RSV activity, they may still be eligible during the season.

You can schedule an appointment with our team to review your child’s options.

Other Ways to Help Prevent RSV

RSV spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, close contact, and contaminated surfaces. In addition to immunization when recommended, families can help reduce the spread of RSV by:

• Washing hands often
• Keeping babies away from people who are sick
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Avoiding smoke exposure
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Keeping children home when they are sick

When to Call the Pediatrician

Call your child’s pediatrician if your baby has RSV symptoms and is very young, feeding poorly, breathing fast, wheezing, or showing signs of dehydration.

Seek urgent medical care if your child has trouble breathing, blue or gray coloring around the lips, pauses in breathing, severe lethargy, or signs of dehydration such as very few wet diapers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is RSV just a cold?

Sometimes RSV looks like a cold, especially in older children. In infants and young children, RSV can become more serious and may affect the lungs and breathing.

Does every baby need RSV immunization?

Many infants younger than 8 months may be eligible during RSV season, especially if they were not protected through maternal RSV vaccination during pregnancy. Your pediatrician can confirm what is recommended for your baby.

Can RSV immunization be given with other vaccines?

In many cases, RSV immunization can be given during the same visit as routine childhood vaccines. Your provider will review your child’s schedule and make the safest recommendation.

Can my child still get RSV after immunization?

Yes, it is still possible to get RSV. The goal of immunization is to reduce the risk of severe illness, breathing complications, and hospitalization.

Is RSV immunization only for premature babies?

No. RSV can be serious for premature babies, but protection may also be recommended for many infants entering their first RSV season, depending on age, timing, and whether maternal RSV vaccine was received during pregnancy.

Partner With Your Pediatrician

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we are committed to helping parents make informed decisions about prevention, vaccines, and childhood wellness. Explore more topics in our Vaccination Series or contact our team with any questions.

Schedule an Appointment

Your child’s health starts with prevention. Book your appointment today at our New Castle or Carbondale locations.

Garfield County Kindergarten Roundups!

Hepatitis B Vaccine for Children: What Parents Need to Know

The Hepatitis B vaccine is one of the first and most important protections your child receives—often within the first 24 hours of life. At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we follow guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to ensure your child is protected from serious disease as early as possible.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to both short-term illness and long-term complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.

According to the AAP Hepatitis B vaccine guidance, infants are especially at risk of developing chronic infection if exposed early in life.

Why is the Hepatitis B Vaccine Given at Birth?

The AAP recommends that all newborns receive their first dose within 24 hours of birth. This timing is critical because:

• Infants are more likely to develop lifelong infection
• Early infection often has no symptoms
• Chronic Hepatitis B can cause severe liver damage

Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedule

The vaccine is given in a 3-dose series:

• Birth: Within 24 hours
• 1–2 Months: Second dose
• 6–18 Months: Final dose

For a full breakdown of vaccine timing, visit the Vaccination Series main page.

How the Vaccine Works

The Hepatitis B vaccine uses a non-infectious component of the virus to train the immune system to recognize and fight it. This allows your child to build long-term protection without exposure to the disease itself.

Is the Hepatitis B Vaccine Safe?

Yes. The Hepatitis B vaccine has been studied extensively and is considered safe and effective. The AAP confirms vaccine safety through decades of research and monitoring.

Common Side Effects

• Mild soreness at injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Temporary fussiness

Serious side effects are extremely rare.

Who Should Receive the Hepatitis B Vaccine?

The AAP recommends this vaccine for all infants, children, and adolescents who have not yet been vaccinated.

This is especially important for families receiving care at our New Castle pediatric clinic and Carbondale pediatric clinic, where preventative care is a top priority.

Who Should NOT Receive It?

Most children can safely receive the vaccine. However, it may be delayed if:

• There is a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose
• The infant is medically unstable at birth

Your pediatric provider will guide you through any necessary adjustments.

What If My Child Missed a Dose?

If your child falls behind, there is no need to restart the series. The AAP recommends continuing where you left off.

You can schedule an appointment with our team to create a catch-up plan.

Why Following the Schedule Matters

The recommended schedule is based on how a child’s immune system develops. Delaying vaccines increases the risk of infection during vulnerable stages of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hepatitis B really a risk for newborns?

Yes. Even without known exposure, early vaccination ensures immediate protection.

Can multiple vaccines be given at once?

Yes. According to the AAP vaccine safety guidance, receiving multiple vaccines at the same visit is safe and effective.

Will my child need boosters later?

Most children do not require boosters after completing the full series.

Partner With Your Pediatrician

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we are committed to helping parents make informed decisions. Explore more topics in our Vaccination Series or contact our team with any questions.

Schedule an Appointment

Your child’s health starts with prevention. Book your appointment today at our New Castle or Carbondale locations.

Supporting Local Families: Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap in Glenwood Springs

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we know that raising healthy kids goes far beyond checkups and sick visits. It also means helping families access practical support, useful resources, and community events that make everyday life a little easier. That is one reason events like the Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap are such a great opportunity for local families in Glenwood Springs and the surrounding area.

If you have growing kids at home, you already know how quickly they move from one clothing size to the next. From infant outfits to school-age essentials and teen basics, it can feel like children outgrow wardrobes overnight. A community clothing swap is a simple, family-friendly way to pick up needed items, pass along gently used pieces, and connect with other local parents who understand exactly what that season of life looks like.

Event Details

The Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap is scheduled for April 18 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. Clothing sizes available range from infant through size 16, making this a helpful event for families with children in many different age groups.

The event will take place at:

2195 County Road 154, Glenwood Springs
Light past Walmart on the frontage road

One of the best parts of this event is that all items are free during the swap. No donation is required in order to participate, which helps make the event welcoming and accessible to every family. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags to carry home clothing and shoes.

Donation Information

Families who would like to give back can donate clean, gently used children’s clothes and shoes. Donations may be dropped off at Mountain View Church from April 3 through April 11. Events like this work best when the community comes together, and even a small bag of outgrown clothing can make a meaningful difference for another family.

Why Community Events Like This Matter

Children thrive when families feel supported. Access to clothing, shoes, seasonal essentials, and community connection can reduce stress on parents and caregivers, especially during busy or financially stretched times of year. A clothing swap is more than just a place to find free items. It is also a reminder that local families are not alone.

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we believe strong communities help build strong kids. Whether your child needs preventive care, help staying on track with growth and development, or support during a busy school season, having trusted local resources matters. Community events and quality pediatric care work hand in hand to support children’s overall well-being.

Keeping Kids Healthy as Seasons Change

A clothing swap in spring is also a great time for parents to think ahead about seasonal health needs. As children transition into warmer weather, school activities, sports, and outdoor play, it can be helpful to stay current on preventive care and wellness visits. If your child is due for a routine exam, a sports clearance, or updated immunizations, our team is here to help.

Learn more about our services for Well Child Care, Vaccinations, and Sports Physicals. These visits help families stay proactive as kids grow, change, and stay active throughout the year.

Care That Supports the Whole Child

At Castle Valley Children’s Clinic, we are proud to provide care for children and young adults in a family-centered setting. We know that children’s health includes more than treating illness. It includes routine checkups, developmental support, behavioral health resources, preventive care, and guidance for parents navigating every stage of childhood.

If you are new to our clinic and want to learn more about who we are, visit our About page. If you are already part of our clinic family, you can also access helpful tools through our Patient Portal.

Planning to Attend the Kids Clothing Swap?

If you are heading to the Mountain View Church Kids Clothing Swap, remember to arrive early for the best selection and bring reusable bags. This is a wonderful chance to pick up clothing your child needs now, prepare for upcoming growth spurts, and be part of a practical, generous community event right here in Glenwood Springs.

We love seeing local families supported through events like this, and we are always glad to point parents toward resources that help children stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for whatever comes next.

Need Pediatric Care in the Roaring Fork Valley?

If your child needs a checkup, ongoing care, or help getting ready for school, sports, or seasonal activities, Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is here for your family. You can also contact us to get in touch with our team and learn more about available services and locations.

New Hours Starting Monday, February 9th!

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is expanding it’s hours to better serve our community. We’re excited to announce that we are going to be open for new hours starting Monday February 9th. See hours below. This will be in effect at both locations in New Castle and Carbondale.

Monday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am-6:00pm
Thursday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm

**Please note that these hours are not in effect until February 9, 2026.**

Annual Book Fair At New Castle Recreation Center

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to sponsor this years annual book fair at the New Castle Recreation Center. This is the week! The FREE FOR ALL BOOK FAIR!! This is FREE event for kids and their adults to come take great quality books (as many as they want!) as well as other community prizes – gift cards and toys are some of them!! This is a great place to let kids “shop” for themselves and their family members this holiday season. And what is better than putting books into the hands of kids (and adults!).

We are so thankful to all our community members who helped us make this event possible. The community has been so incredible in helping this event come together.

Where: New Castle Recreation Center

Address: 423 W Main St, New Castle, CO 81647 (View On Google Maps)

When: Friday December 13, 2025 from 12PM – 5PM.

Admission: Free

Photos from prior book fairs in New Castle.

Book Fair Flyers

Annual CVCC Christmas Party With Santa

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to announce we’ve hosted our 21st Annual Christmas Party With Santa for children with special needs this past weekend at the New Castle Community Center.

Thanks to RIDE for bringing “Dandi” for all of the children, and adults to enjoy. You can find more information on him here.

We want to give a big thanks to our sponsors: Apline Bank, Rick & Judy Oakes, and Coca Cola.

If you would like more information about our Annual Christmas Party With Santa for children with special needs, contact us here.

Annual Book Fair At Glenwood Springs Community Center

Castle Valley Children’s Clinic is proud to sponsor this years annual book fair at the Glenwood Springs Community Center.

Where: Glenwood Springs Community Center

Address: 100 Wulfsohn Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 (View On Google Maps)

When: Friday December 13, 2025 from 12PM – 5PM.

Admission: Free

Photos from prior book fairs in New Castle.

You can read more about the 2024 book fair in Glenwood Springs here on the Post Independent website.