Immunizations

Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is a bloodborne virus which can cause serious acute and chronic liver infection and potential liver damage and death. Each year it is estimated that 140,000 Americans get infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is 100 times more infectious than HIV, and can live on a dry surface for at least 7 days.

Hepatitis B vaccine can prevent hepatitis B. Anyone at risk for exposure to blood or body fluids should receive the three doses of hepatitis B vaccine according to the CDC recommended schedule, which includes emergency medical response and public safety workers.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccine (Td or Tdap)

Tetanus is a serious disease caused by bacteria entering the body through a wound such as a scratch, cut, burn, animal bite, or splinter. Diphtheria bacteria enter the body through person-to-person contact and produce powerful toxins affecting the muscles, throat, and tonsils and are common in our environment. Pertussis (Whooping cough) bacteria enter the body through person to person contact and cause a highly contagious disease with upper respiratory infection symptoms and severe coughing spells and vomiting. At this time, Tdap is licenses for only one lifetime dose per person (adolescents and adults). Td is given as a booster dose recommended every 10 years and more often if needed.

Influenza Vaccine

Influenza is a serious respiratory disease caused by a virus that spreads from infected persons to the nose or throat of others. It causes an average of 36,000 deaths each year in the U.S. most among the elderly. Influenza vaccine can prevent influenza or allow for a milder case of the infection. Inactivated (killed) influenza vaccine is recommended annually during the flu season.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (MMR)

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella are contagious diseases which can lead to serious illness and permanent physical damage. Most people have been vaccinated for these diseases during childhood, or are considered naturally immune from exposure if born before 1957. Adults in high-risk groups, such as health care workers, emergency medical response workers, students entering colleges, and international travelers should receive a total of two doses of MMR vaccine. Also, if you were previously vaccinated with killed measles vaccine or with an unknown vaccine between 1963 and 1967 you should receive two doses of MMR.

Varicella Vaccine

Varicella (chickenpox) is a common childhood viral disease spread through person-to-person contact which is usually mild, but it can be serious including complications, especially in infants and adults. It causes a rash, itching, fever, and tiredness. People 13 years of age and older who have never had chickenpox or received chickenpox vaccine should get two doses at least 28 days apart.

For additional vaccine information or to discuss details and costs regarding this service, call 218-312-3017.