August is National Immunization Month, a time to focus on vaccination for people of all ages. Immunizations remain the best way of preventing infectious disease. In the United States, immunizations have resulted in near elimination of measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and tetanus (McPhee & Papadakis, 2010).
Vaccines work very well, but of course no medication is perfect. Immunity from childhood vaccinations is between 90 - 100% effective (Vaccines.gov, 2014). All vaccinations must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before use. Also, federal law requires that Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) explaining vaccine benefits and risks, be provided before administration of vaccinations (CDC, 2012). This information will allow the people to make informed decisions about vaccinations. |
|
A vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, just like it would if you were exposed to the disease (CDC, 2012). Vaccines contain the same type of germs that would cause you to become ill, however, it is killed or weakened to the point where you don’t get sick.
For example, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination, contains a weakened, live form of the viruses to help stimulate immunity. Whereas, the Hepatitis B vaccination is made out of a killed virus. Both killed and live vaccinations stimulate the body’s response in the same way. It is important to note that unlike most medicines, which treat or cure diseases, vaccines prevent them (CDC, 2012). |
Immunizations are not just for kids. Regardless of age, everyone needs immunizations to stay healthy. Over time, immunity from childhood immunizations can wear off and put you at risk for different diseases (CDC, 2012).
The specific immunizations you need as an adult are determined by factors such as:
| • | Age |
| • | Lifestyle |
| • | Occupation |
| • | Health conditions |
| • | Locations of travel |
| • | Previous immunization status (CDC, 2012) |
|
Jackson College Health Clinic
|
Immunizations available at the Jackson College Health Clinic:
| • | COVID - Free |
| • | Tdap - $60 |
| • | TB Skin Test - $15 |
| • | Hep B - $70 |
| • | Flu Shot - $25 |
The JC Health Clinic can also get other vaccinations not listed above. Please inquire about special order vaccinations. Prices will be quoted upon request. |
| • | Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2012). Vaccine-preventable adult diseases.
|
| • | McPhee, S.J., & Papadakis, M.A. (2010). Current medical diagnosis and treatment (49th ed.) New York: McGraw Hill
|
| • | Vaccines.gov (2014). Vaccines the basics. Retrieved June 9, 2014. |
|
|
|
|
|
