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Pharmacy and Immunizations: Staying Up to Date on Vaccines



staying up to date on vaccines

We all value our health. We want it to be something that runs smoothly in the background so that we can focus on living our lives. One way to support your health is by staying up to date on vaccines. In this article, we’ll discuss what vaccines are, myths associated with vaccines, and why vaccines are so important for you. 


What Are Vaccines?


Proper understanding is key. Luckily, vaccines are not difficult to understand! According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, vaccines are, a way to build your body’s natural immunity to a disease before you get sick. This keeps you from getting and spreading the disease. For some vaccines, a weakened form of the disease germ is injected into your body [via] a shot…Your body detects the invading germs and produces antibodies to fight them… If you’re ever exposed to the disease again, your body will fight it off without you ever getting the disease.


Some may feel alarmed when hearing that a weakened or dead version of the germ is injected into their body, but don’t worry, “vaccines do NOT cause the disease they are meant to prevent” (American Academy of Family Physicians). Let’s bust a couple more vaccination myths.


Vaccination Myths


1. “Vaccines cause autism.”


This myth stems from a paper that has since been discredited. Multiple legitimate studies have been conducted, none of which showing a link between vaccines and autism (American Academy of Family Physicians). 


2. “Vaccines contain toxins that will harm me.”

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, some vaccines contain trace amounts of substances that could be harmful in a large dose… but the amount used in the vaccines is so small that the vaccines are completely safe. For example, over the course of all vaccinations by the age of 2, a child will take in 4mg of aluminum. A breast-fed baby will take in 10mg in 6 months. 


Vaccines go through intensive research and development by qualified and experienced professionals! They ensure that what they are giving you is safe. 


Why Vaccines Are Important 

Did you know that only about 20% of adults are up to date with their vaccinations? At the same time, “Most illnesses, hospitalizations, disability, and deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases occur among adults” (Immunize). Vaccinations help you stay healthy even after exposure, prevent life-changing or fatal illness, reduce risks associated with other health conditions, and protect the vulnerable in our society like children and the elderly (Immunize). In fact, the American Academy of Family Physicians believes that vaccines are ESSENTIAL to preventing the occurrence and spread of contagious illnesses. 


At Compass Community Health, we understand the importance of vaccinations and are here to help you stay healthy and up to date! Have questions or not sure if you’re up to date? Call our Pharmacy at (740) 351-1500! Don’t put your health on the back burner. We’re here for you!


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Your health is important. Compass Community Health is here to help.


Reach out today!



-Message us on Facebook @ Compass Community Health


-Call: 740-355-7102


-Address: 1634 11th St, Portsmouth, OH 45662

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