Vaccines

What are vaccines?

Vaccines, sometimes called immunizations, are medical treatments that help your body and immune system build their ability to fight off certain diseases. 

Before the introduction of vaccines, diseases like measles, mumps, and polio had a devastating effect on children, with many becoming paralyzed, sterile, or disfigured. Today, children avoid these diseases and lead healthy, active lives. 

Vaccines also help protect your community. They prevent the spread of disease and illness at schools and other public places, which helps protect more vulnerable people who either can’t have vaccinations or are immunocompromised. 

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines work by introducing a small, diluted amount of a virus or bacteria into your system. This tiny amount of the illness is just enough to stimulate your immune system without making you or your child sick. 

As your immune system responds, it builds antibodies to fight off the virus or bacteria. These antibodies stay in your system, and if you happen to come into contact with the disease again, later in life, your immune system is already prepared to fight off the illness. 

What are the recommended vaccines for children and adults?

LaSante Health Center provides the full range of recommended vaccines for children and adults. Children start receiving vaccines soon after birth, and your pediatrician follows a vaccination schedule as they grow up.

Children should receive immunizations for:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP)
• Hepatitis A and B
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Meningococcal disease
• Pneumococcal disease
• Polio
• Rotavirus
• Chickenpox
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Influenza (yearly)

Some vaccines require booster shots later in life. Some of the vaccines that adults should make sure they’re up-to-date on include:

• DTaP
• Shingles
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine
• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
• Influenza (yearly)

If you travel outside of the United States, check to see if your destination has any active diseases that aren’t present in the United States. LaSante Health Center can provide some travel vaccinations. 

Do I need an annual flu shot?

Yes, you and your family should have annual flu shots, especially if you have school-aged children, elderly family members, or anyone with a compromised immune system in your family. 

The flu virus changes rapidly and is different from year to year. Having an annual flu shot can prevent you and your family from getting sick and help stop the spread of illness through your community. 

Call LaSante Health Center or make an appointment online today if you or any member of your family needs vaccines.