Vaccinations

How do vaccinations work? 

Vaccinations prevent and control the outbreak of infectious diseases, including smallpox, measles, the flu, and chickenpox. 

A vaccine contains a weakened or dead version of a certain contagion. When a vaccine enters your body, it prompts your immune system to develop resistance to the contagion – without making you seriously sick. 

Next time you come into contact with the contagion, your body knows how to fight it off, protecting you from developing major symptoms and complications.

Who benefits from vaccinations?

While you may know infants, toddlers, and school-age kids need vaccinations to develop their initial immunity to devastating diseases, you may not realize that adults need vaccinations, too.

The providers at Stoneleigh Medical Group offer the appropriate vaccinations to children, teens, and adults.

Immunity can wear off over time, so boosters for certain conditions are necessary. Teens benefit from boosters of vaccines they got as a child and from vaccines that protect them from contagions like meningitis and human papillomavirus (HPV).

As you age, your immune system weakens, and vaccinations can help protect adults from serious diseases like pneumonia and shingles. Vaccinations for contagious viruses like COVID-19 and the flu protect you and the community, too. Adults may also need boosters for certain illnesses.

Getting vaccinated is an easy process, and, in most cases, insurance covers the cost. Vaccinations also help you avoid the expense, including medical bills and lost work, of serious illness. 

What vaccinations do I need? 

Major health organizations have specific recommendations when it comes to vaccines. They publish schedules to help you know when to get a vaccine for the best effect. Of course, Stoneleigh Medical Group keeps track of these for you. 

Common vaccines for children and/or adults:

• Chickenpox
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine (DTaP)
• Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
• Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR)
• Shingles
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine
  
  

You may also have specific requirements for certain vaccinations due to your specific health conditions, travel plans, or work requirements. 

Schedule an appointment at Stoneleigh Medical Group to get your child vaccinated or to make sure your vaccines are up-to-date. Call the office or click on the online booking tool to get started.