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Safety & Side Effects
Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary. Some common side effects are soreness around the injection site, swelling, redness, low fever and fatigue. It’s always good to keep in mind that vaccine side effects are minor compared to the more severe health issues that can be caused if you get sick with the disease.
General Questions
Vaccines have a long history of successfully protecting people and communities against serious diseases. Millions of people safely get vaccines every year. Vaccines are also extensively tested and continually monitored for safety by multiple organizations and systems.
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Scientific data shows that giving a child more than one vaccine at the same time does not harm or overwhelm a healthy immune system. And there is no evidence that delaying vaccines is safer.
Ingredients
Vaccine ingredients are different for each vaccine. In general, vaccines include either a weakened version, a killed version, or a piece of the bacteria or virus that they provide protection against. This helps the immune system recognize and fight diseases. Vaccines may also include a substance called an adjuvant, which helps to boost the body’s response, stabilizers, and sometimes residual ingredients from manufacturing. All vaccine ingredients are included for a purpose and are reviewed as part of the vaccine safety process.
Schedules
Following the recommended vaccine schedule is an important way to support your health. Vaccine schedules are created by medical experts to provide the best protection against diseases at times when people (especially children and older adults) are at the greatest risk for getting sick.
Records
Visit the Washington Department of Health’s MyIRMobile.com website to view and print your family’s vaccine records. You can also contact your healthcare provider, medical clinic, or local pharmacy.
General Questions
You can stay up to date on your vaccines at local pharmacies, or your doctor’s office. Remember to call ahead to confirm they have the vaccine you need in stock. If you do not have a doctor, see the Free and Low-Cost Health Related resources brochure.
Travel Immunizations
Check with your health care provider or your local pharmacy at least 4-6 weeks before your trip. They will review your travel plans, health history and get you the necessary vaccines.
General Questions
Children, especially babies, are at higher risk for serious illness. They are exposed to thousands of germs every day, and their immune systems are just developing. Vaccines help strengthen those immune systems and teach them how to defend against germs.
General Questions
Adults need vaccines to help stay healthy. Vaccines help maintain protection against diseases and build protection against new virus strains. Vaccinations also help to protect people around you, like babies and older adults who are at higher risk for serious illnesses.
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Recommended childhood vaccines are provided at no cost for children 18 years and younger through the Washington State Childhood Vaccination Program. You may be charged a small fee for the office visit and vaccine administration.
Many recommended vaccines are available for free or at low cost through health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, or community health clinics.
General Questions
The diseases vaccines protect against can be serious and sometimes deadly. Vaccines provide a safer way to build protection against these serious diseases.
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