Vaccines

A vaccine is an oral or injected preparation that stimulates the body's immune response in order to prevent a specific disease. If you or a family member has a breathing or immune system condition, there are several vaccines that are really important to help you prevent getting a serious illness that can further compromise your health.

Learn about some common vaccines:

• Flu Vaccine
  Most people benefit from receiving the flu vaccine. Anyone who would like to decrease the chances of getting the flu or spreading the flu to others can get the flu shot each year.
• Diphtheria
  This respiratory disease is caused by bacteria that are spread through coughing, sneezing and contaminated objects. All children need this vaccine and adults should get a booster every 10 years.
• 2009 H1N1 Flu
  This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Please check with your primary care provider regarding the H1N1 vaccine and if you develop symptoms of the virus.
• Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
  This is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. All children should get this vaccine and adults should get a booster.
• Pneumococcal Pneumonia
  This form of pneumonia is caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. People age 65 and older and people who have certain health conditions should receive this vaccine.
• Chickenpox Vaccine
  Although chickenpox is usually mild, vaccinating children can prevent complications of severe chickenpox and reduce costs associated with children missing school and adults missing work. The chickenpox vaccine is very effective in preventing chickenpox.