August Is National Immunization Awareness Month

Getting vaccines when they are recommended is the best way to stay healthy and well and protect yourself and your loved ones against serious diseases.

Why are immunizations important?

Immunizations are important because they keep us from contracting serious diseases, and the more people get vaccinated, the better the vaccines work. Some diseases, like polio or measles, are rare because we have had effective vaccines for them for many years. However, there are still outbreaks that occur and if you are not vaccinated and you are exposed, you are at risk of catching and spreading the disease, which can cause long-term damage to your body.

You may think you are protected by “herd immunity” even if you are not vaccinated, but herd immunity is not effective if many people are unvaccinated. If more people are immunized, it’s less likely a disease will spread and cause an outbreak, and more likely herd immunity will be achieved, which protects people who cannot get vaccinated, like children who are too young for certain vaccines or others who are allergic to a vaccine ingredient.

How do vaccines work?

Vaccines work by teaching your immune system to respond quickly and effectively against various diseases so that if you are exposed to a disease you have been vaccinated against, your body already has the tools to fight it off and prevent you from getting a serious case.

Are vaccines safe?

Yes. Vaccines must undergo many clinical trials before they are approved for distribution to the public. They are rigorously tested and reviewed before they are approved for general use. Vaccines are the best way to keep you and your family safe during the school year and beyond.

Your Albertsons medical plan covers standard immunizations at 100%. Talk to your PCP or your child’s pediatrician about vaccines you or your children may be due for. You can find more information here, including a list of covered immunizations.