As the parent of a newborn, you want to make your baby's health a priority. Vaccinations are one way to keep them safe from harmful germs. Kids can't get all their immunizations done immediately, however, and must follow a recommended schedule of shots spanning the first years of their life. Find out how you can keep little ones safe before they are fully vaccinated below.

How to Keep Babies Safe From Germs

1. Limit Contact With Strangers

Avoid public places with large crowds, such as shopping malls, where kids are exposed to a great number of bacteria in a short amount of time. Also, limit guests to your home in your child's first months.

2. Wash Hands

If you head out without your baby, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly when you return home. If friends or family stop by, have them wash up the minute they walk in the door, as well as before handling the infant.

3. Put on Clean Clothes

Along with washing hands, change into clean clothes as soon as you come in from the outside world. Keep oversized T-shirts on hand for guests to borrow. If you explain that the baby hasn't gotten all their vaccinations yet, people will be happy to oblige your request to change clothes.

4. Be Careful With Milk & Formula

Whether you breast feed or use formula, always throw away the leftovers after feeding. Bacteria and enzymes from your baby's spit can backwash into the bottle, breeding germs and causing potential sicknesses.

5. Sterilize Baby Feeding Tools 

When you buy a new pacifier or baby bottle, boil it in hot water to sterilize it before using it for the first time. For future use, you can simply wash these materials in warm, soapy water or put them in the dishwasher.

To decrease your child's risk of illness, turn to Pediatrics PC of Lincoln, NE, to take care of their vaccinations. This medical center has been serving the community for over 50 years. Their team of physicians provides services for kids fo all ages, from newborns to adolescents. They believe in preventative care and provide parents and young people alike with the services and information they need to stay healthy. Learn more about their team online. For a vaccination appointment, call (402) 489-0800.