KAE Cubs Pediatrics Vaccine Policy

At KAE Cubs Pediatrics, we firmly believe in the power of vaccines to protect children, families, and the broader community from serious, preventable diseases. As a practice rooted in evidence-based medicine and a deep commitment to pediatric health, we follow the immunization schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Scientific Evidence on Vaccine Effectiveness and Safety

Vaccines are among the most thoroughly studied and closely monitored medical interventions in history. Extensive clinical trials and real-world data have shown that vaccines are both safe and effective in preventing infectious diseases.

  • Vaccines prevent an estimated 2–3 million deaths globally each year.

  • Immunization has significantly reduced or eliminated deadly diseases such as measles, polio, pertussis (whooping cough), and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

  • Mild side effects (such as temporary soreness or low-grade fever) are expected. Serious adverse events are extremely rare and are continuously monitored by safety systems such as VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System).

Historical Success of Vaccines

  • Smallpox: Eradicated in 1980 through global vaccination efforts.

  • Polio: Once paralyzing over 15,000 people yearly in the U.S., it has been eliminated from the country since 1979 due to vaccination.

  • Measles: Once common in childhood, it saw a dramatic decline following vaccine introduction in 1963. Outbreaks now only occur in under-vaccinated populations.

  • Hib Meningitis: The Hib vaccine has decreased invasive disease in children by over 99% in the U.S.

Vaccines are not just individual protection — they contribute to herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

 Our Vaccine Policy

  1. We follow the CDC/AAP immunization schedule and expect our patients to be vaccinated according to these guidelines.

  2. For families hesitant about vaccines, we recognize that this is an important and emotional decision. We offer a short-term window to explore concerns and provide education:

    • We allow up to three (3) initial INFANT PHYSICALS to discuss vaccine-related concerns.

    • A Vaccine Refusal Form will be provided at physicals that require vaccinations.

  3. If, after the third visit, a family still chooses not to vaccinate, we will respectfully ask the family to transition care to another pediatric provider who aligns with their preferences. This is done in the best interest of all patients and families under our care.

  4. We do not support alternate or delayed vaccine schedules, as these are not supported by medical evidence and increase the risk of disease exposure.

  5. Exemptions are only accepted for documented medical contraindications. The state of California does not provide religious or personal belief exemptions to vaccines.

Final Thoughts

Vaccines are one of the greatest achievements in modern medicine, dramatically reducing disease, disability, and death. At KAE Cubs Pediatrics, our mission is to protect all children through preventive care, community health, and scientific integrity. We look forward to partnering with families who share our vision of a safe, healthy childhood.