Immunizations are an important part of a happy, healthy community. Unfortunately, they are shrouded in unnecessary controversy due to confusion and misinformation. Keep reading to get the facts straight on vaccines – and why you and your family need them.
Immunizations are FDA approved.
Immunizations go through extensive testing by the FDA to ensure they are safe. Even after a vaccine receives FDA approval, it is continually monitored for safety.
It can be harmful to delay immunizations.
Babies should receive multiple vaccinations before their first birthday. Waiting until they are older unnecessarily exposes them to disease. Getting all your child’s immunizations can also reduce their risk of SIDS by 50% according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Adults need immunizations too.
Though some childhood vaccines last a lifetime, some need to be boosted to reinforce your immunity. These are often administered by your primary care physician. Adults can also take advantage of medical breakthroughs by receiving new vaccines that weren’t available to them as children.
Immunizations protect the entire community.
Immunizations protect an individual from contracting illness and disease, but they also protect the entire community. Even a small number of unvaccinated individuals have the potential to cause an epidemic, spreading disease amongst themselves, young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Immunizations have the potential to eradicate some diseases.
Though prevalent in other countries, vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio and mumps are rare in the U.S. thanks to immunizations. If we continue using vaccinations to prevent illness, we have the power to eradicate certain diseases.
Immunizations are an essential component of a healthy life. To make sure you and your family members have all the vaccines you need, talk to your primary care physician, or request an appointment at a Baptist Health clinic nearest you.