Immunizations Specialist

What are immunizations?

Immunizations, otherwise called vaccines, are preventive treatments designed to provide your body with the defenses it needs to fight against potentially life-threatening illnesses.

During your immunization consultation, your doctor administers a small and diluted amount of the virus directly into your body through a needle. Once your body absorbs the virus, it starts to create antibodies to reject the virus.

These antibodies stay in your body and shield you from future infections.

Why should I get immunized?

Getting immunized isn’t only a medical requirement, it’s also a civic responsibility.

Refusing to get vaccinated exposes you to diseases that can lead to devastating and life-altering consequences, such as infertility, paralysis, even death.

Also, immunizations are a clear sign of respect for your community. Some people aren’t able to get immunized because of allergies. In these cases, knowing that the people around them are vaccinated against a disease can reduce their chances of exposure.

What are some important pediatric immunizations?

Pediatric immunizations are integral to making sure your child starts life healthy. Vaccinations also significantly reduce their chances of contracting illnesses down the line.

Common and mandatory immunizations for children under the age of 18 include:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Rotavirus
• Diphtheria
• Tetanus
• Acellular pertussis
• Polio
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Varicella
• Meningococcal meningitis
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate
• Flu
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) publishes this list every year as a reminder that children are the most at risk of contracting an illness due to their underdeveloped immune system.

What immunizations do I need as an adult?

As an adult, you should speak to Dr. Gandhi about which boosters you’ll need to make sure the vaccines you received as a child are still active. Boosters are available for most of the vaccines included in the list above. Dr. Gandhi also recommends that you get a tetanus shot every 10 years.

During your appointment at Medinet Family Care Clinic, Dr. Gandhi evaluates the number of antibodies present in your system to fight off diseases. You might also need additional vaccines if you’re a frequent traveler.

Take control over your health and stay up to date with your immunizations. Call or book an appointment at Medinet Family Care Clinic today.

Are there symptoms of tetanus?

Yes, although tetanus has an incubation period of 3-21 days — 10 days is average — so you might not experience symptoms for an extended period. The most common signs and symptoms of tetanus are:

• Muscle spasms or stiffness
• Difficulty swallowing or lockjaw
• Elevated blood pressure or heart rate

When body spasms occur, not only are they known for being painful, but they can also last for several minutes. These uncomfortable spasms are easily triggered by loud noises, touching, or flickering lights.

How is tetanus treated?

The first step in treating tetanus involves cleaning the wound to prevent further growth of tetanus spores. Once your practitioner cares for your wound, you need to start medication. Depending on your symptoms and when you were exposed to tetanus spores, you could need:

• Antitoxin medications
• Antibiotic pills or injections
• Sedatives to control spasms

The best thing you can do to prevent tetanus is to stay up-to-date with your tetanus shot. In most cases, you simply need a booster every 10 years. If you’re not sure when you had your last tetanus shot though, it’s time to come into Medinet Family Care Clinic, especially if you have a fresh wound.

Take control over your health and stay up to date with your immunizations. Call or book an appointment at Medinet Family Care Clinic today.