Certain viruses and diseases can be prevented through vaccinations, and many doctors recommend getting them at the appropriate time. Many of these illnesses can be life-threatening, especially to those with weakened immune systems. Some of these diseases have been nearly eradicated in the United States due to vaccines, but they may still be prevalent in other countries. AFC Urgent Care North Andover provides many vaccines to all patients for different reasons. Be sure to call our center ahead of time to ensure the proper vaccines are available.

Why Are Vaccines Important?

Viruses prevented by vaccines are not completely gone. If someone were to not get a vaccine for a certain illness and then travel to another country, their risk of getting it is extremely high. Additionally, being around others who have traveled to that country may also increase an unvaccinated patient’s risk. Vaccines are important for many reasons. Not only do they protect you, but they protect others around you from potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Illnesses with Available Vaccines

Polio

Polio is transmitted from person to person and can cause paralysis through a patient’s brain and spinal cord. By receiving the recommended vaccines in childhood, this can help keep the U.S. a polio-free country. This is the most effective way to keep your children and infants safe and healthy from contracting polio.

DTaP

The DTaP vaccine is able to fight against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. All of these illnesses cause different symptoms, but they can be fatal for small children and infants. It is recommended that children receive five doses of the DTaP vaccine throughout childhood. This is the only way to prevent them from getting these life-threatening illnesses truly.

Influenza

The flu shot can help prevent severe symptoms and transmitting it to others with weakened immune systems. There are thousands of hospitalizations and fatalities due to the flu each year. Infants younger than six months cannot receive the vaccine, so it’s best for all adults around them to get theirs to prevent transmission.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis A and B can be avoided through vaccines. Hep A can be transmitted from person to person, and contaminated food or water and affects the liver. On the other hand, Hep B is transmitted through blood and can be transmitted from a mother to her unborn child. Infants need to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth.

MMR

MMR stands for measles, mumps, and rubella. This vaccine protects against all three illnesses, of which measles is likely the most contagious. An unvaccinated child can get measles from a person in a room up to two hours after that person has left. It is recommended for children to get two doses of the MMR vaccine in order to be protected.