In this episode of Growing Up with Dr. Sarah, we’re joined by Dr. Ravi Jhaveri, a leading pediatric infectious disease specialist, to cut through the confusion surrounding childhood vaccines, especially the hepatitis B vaccine given at birth. Together, they explore why the newborn period is such a critical window for prevention, how hepatitis B can quietly cause lifelong infection when exposure happens early, and why universal newborn vaccination has proven far more effective than risk-based approaches. In this episode the pediatricians share decades of public health lessons, explaining how gaps in prenatal care and fragmented health systems make targeted strategies difficult, and how a simple birth-dose vaccine has prevented chronic disease and cancer for millions. The conversation also addresses common parent concerns about vaccine safety, immune system “overload,” and mixed messages from policy changes. This episode offers clear, compassionate explanations about how modern vaccines are more precise than ever, why vaccines are designed to prevent the most severe outcomes (not just infection), and how early immunization protects entire communities. Above all, this episode emphasizes trust: trusting the science, trusting long-term data, and trusting the relationship between parents and their child’s doctor. It’s a hopeful, grounded discussion that empowers families to make informed decisions with confidence. #vaccination #immunization #infectiousdisease #newborns #childhoodvaccineschedule Have questions about today’s episode, or anything else related to the health and wellness of your family? Write us an email or upload a voice memo, to growingupwithdr.sarah@gmail.com and we’ll try and address your questions or play your questions on an episode. Check out previous episodes of Growing Up with Dr. Sarah wherever you get podcasts. We want to hear from our listeners! To record and email a voice memo, use your phone's built-in recorder (like Voice Memos on iPhone or a similar app on Android), tap the record button, speak your message (holding the phone like a call), stop recording, then use the “share” icon to select your email app, fill in details, and send the attached audio file. Alternatively, draft a new email and use the attachment icon to add the saved audio file directly. Email us: growingupwithdr.sarah@gmail.com About Our Podcast: Looking for a place to educate yourself and your family on how to live your best lives? Welcome to Growing Up with Dr. Sarah, where we discuss general health and wellness, parenting, family matters, and real-life challenges that affect every single one of us. As both a pediatrician and a mom, I have unique insight on how to grow healthier, happier, and stronger as individuals, and as families. The success of the family starts from the top, by helping parents and caregivers address tough questions and everyday concerns. So join me and some of my special guests: physicians, nutritionists, fitness experts, community members, coaches, teachers, and more –and let’s grow up together! ======================================================= IG: @growingupwithdrsarah ======================================================== TikTok: @growingupwithdrsarah This podcast is produced by GTS Media, LLC & Audivita Studios
