Immunizations

What are immunizations?

Immunizations, or vaccinations, are a type of primary prevention administered via injection. Immunizations expose your body’s immune system to pathogens that cause infection. This teaches your immune system to track down harmful microorganisms and get rid of them.

Immunizations have a proven track record of success. By receiving them regularly, you can significantly lower your risk of getting sick, while protecting friends, family members, and the community. 

How do immunizations work?

Immunizations work by exposing you to a safe or weakened version of a disease. This can take the form of a dead or inactive pathogen or a protein or sugar derived from the makeup of a pathogen. 

Your body responds to the immunization by developing an adaptive immune response. This helps your body defend itself in the future.

What are some of the most common immunizations?

Immunizations are important for people of all ages, from children to adults. Some of the most common immunizations include:

• Hepatitis B
• Rotavirus
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (DTaP)
• Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
• Hepatitis A
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Another common immunization is the annual flu shot. There’s no way to prevent the seasonal flu entirely, but getting the immunization can significantly lower your risk.

Why would I need immunizations?

Dr. Elango offers immunizations for several reasons, including:

College immunizations

Young adults entering college must have all of their vaccinations up-to-date. Following a physical exam and a review of your child’s medical history, Dr. Elango can make immunization recommendations based on your child’s needs. Most universities require immunizations for polio, hepatitis B, chickenpox, and meningococcal conjugate.

Pre-employment immunizations

If you work in a healthcare setting or another environment that involves close contact with others, you might also need immunizations for work. This also applies if you regularly travel out of the country on business. Dr. Elango can consult with you to determine which immunizations you need to maintain your employment status.

Are immunizations safe?

Immunizations are safe and generally well-tolerated. Before being released to the general public, immunizations undergo years of testing and peer review. 

Following your immunization appointment, it’s normal to experience soreness or light bruising at the injection site. However, this should subside within a day or two of your appointment.

If you need to update your immunizations, schedule an appointment at the private practice of Peggy Elango, DO. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member or book a consultation online today.