Many serious diseases may be
prevented by vaccinations or immunizations.
Vaccines work to protect infants, children,
and adults from illnesses, disease, and death
caused by infectious diseases. Some of these
diseases that are preventable by receiving the
vaccination include polio, measles, diphtheria,
pertussis (whooping cough), rubella (German
measles), mumps, tetanus, and Haemophilus
influenzae type b (Hib). According to the
Center for Disease Prevention and Control, or
CDC, “vaccines are the best defense we
have against infectious diseases.”
The CDC and the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) work to make vaccines as
safe as possible. Unfortunately, no vaccine
is completely safe or effective. Mild, short
lasting side effects are not uncommon upon receiving
vaccinations. These mild side effects may include
general discomfort, a low fever, or soreness
where the vaccine was injected. Very rarely,
people experience more serious side effects
such as an allergic reaction. If someone has
a reaction to a vaccine, it is important to
get him or her to a doctor right away. Make
sure to let your doctor know what happened,
the date and time you received the vaccine and
when you had the reaction. All significant reactions
are reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting
System (VAERS). The doctor, nurse, or health
department will file a form to report the reaction.
It is important for you to understand
the benefits and the potential risks of the
vaccine before you or your child receives it.
There have been concerns raised about the risks
of receiving vaccinations and some people should
not get certain vaccines.
Some tips about receiving vaccinations:
• Talk with your doctor
about the benefits and risks for you or your
child.
• Keep the immunization records up to
date.
• Follow schedules provided to you by
your doctor or nurse.
• When traveling abroad, contact a doctor
or public health department as early as possible
to check on vaccines you may need.
