Why are vaccines so important?

Vaccinations are designed to protect you from common contagious illnesses that cause serious disease and even death. The injections contain dead or weakened versions of the virus that causes the illness.

When a vaccine is injected into your body, your immune system develops antibodies against the germ. If you come into contact with the germ after being vaccinated, your body’s immune system is prepared to fight off the infection and you don’t get sick.

Vaccines are often required by institutions, such as schools and some places of employment. CPI Physicians offers the vaccinations you need as part of comprehensive work and school physicals.

What types of vaccinations do I need?

The vaccines you need depend on several factors that are evaluated during a thorough review of your health history, family history, and current lifestyle factors or symptoms. Some of the most common vaccines provided include:

• Flu
• Pneumonia
• Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap)
  
  

Other vaccines may be required depending on your age, your plans to travel, and your job. 

Are vaccines safe?

Vaccines undergo extensive testing before being offered to the general public. While some people express concerns about the safety of vaccines, realize that they’re given to millions of people every year, including children, and effectively protect them from serious illness.

Do vaccines have side effects?

Vaccines are safe, but can sometimes cause mild side effects, including:

• Body aches
• Fever
• Headache
• Pain or swelling at the injection site
  
  

These side effects cause a little discomfort, but are an indication that your body is effectively building up its immunity against the disease.

Why do I need a yearly flu vaccine?

Getting vaccinated yearly against the seasonal flu, or influenza, is a critical step in preserving your health. Many other vaccines, such as Tdap or polio, provide protection for decades — or a lifetime — but the flu is unique. 

The virus that causes the flu mutates with each season and the flu vaccine changes to address these mutations and keep you protected.

Everyone should get a flu vaccine, but those at particular risk, such as pregnant women, older adults, and people with compromised immunity, should make it a priority.

To update your vaccines and receive a preventive health exam for work or school, call CPI Physicians or book online today.