Vaccinations

How do vaccinations work?

Vaccinations are used to reduce the risk in children and adults of contracting contagious diseases that are known to have serious consequences. Many of the diseases can even cause death. Vaccinations are small doses of serum formulated using either a live virus or a few cells of a dead virus.

When receiving a vaccination, the serum is injected into the body, allowing it to build antibodies that protect the patient from contracting the virus. With small children, vaccinations are given over a period of years to help them build their immunity without compromising their systems or causing severe adverse reactions.

How long do vaccinations last?

Vaccinations are formulated to help the patient build antibodies to fight contagious diseases. The antibodies that are created within the body are meant to last a lifetime but may eventually weaken, or their effectiveness may be reduced as the diseases they are designed to prevent alter or mutate.

Booster shots are given at different intervals so the patient is fully protected at all times. Different vaccines require boosters at specific intervals. If you have questions about whether you or your children are up to date, call Dr. Shaheedy's office.

Do teenagers and adults need vaccinations?

As you age, your body's immune system will also change. This may mean that the antibodies that were produced by previous vaccinations may have weakened or the viruses they were designed to prevent may have changed leaving you unprotected.

Periodic booster shots are needed to maintain the level of antibodies required to prevent certain diseases. You also need vaccinations when traveling to certain parts of the world. If you have any questions about whether you need vaccinations or booster shots, call Dr. Shaheedy's office.