Immunizations do more than protect you from getting sick. They also offer protection for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, who are at an increased risk of becoming seriously ill.
Immunizations provide a lessened risk of serious illness
When you receive immunizations, your chance of becoming ill from diseases is much lower. Furthermore, if you become ill, you will likely experience a milder case than if you were not vaccinated. Immunizations lower your risk of complications from infectious diseases, such as seasonal flu and shingles. They can also reduce your risk of a hospital stay. This is especially important if you are elderly, or if you have a condition that compromises your immune system.
Herd immunity
Regular vaccine use protects the public from disease outbreaks. Herd immunity happens when the majority of people in a community are immunized against contagious diseases. The more people who receive immunizations, the less risk there is of an outbreak. Over time, immunizations have managed to eliminate outbreaks of mumps and other infectious diseases that were quite common. However, if people begin opting not to receive vaccines, these diseases can return and outbreaks may resume. For example, outbreak of whooping cough occurred in parts of California due to decreased vaccinations in recent years.
Protection for those most at risk
Not everyone will choose to be immunized and no two individuals will have the same level of protection, even if vaccinated. For instance, infants are too young to receive certain vaccines, which puts them at risk of catching infectious diseases. Those with health conditions which involve a weakened immune system, such as HIV, and the elderly have a higher risk of becoming ill – and developing potentially life-threatening complications. When enough people in a community are vaccinated, it lowers the risk spreading of contagious, yet preventable diseases.
Healthier communities in Arkansas
ARcare is committed to providing primary care for patients of all ages to ensure communities are protected from the flu, pneumonia, and other diseases. ARcare offers immunizations at community health centers throughout Arkansas to help keep our patients as healthy as possible. If you would like to learn more about receiving care, including immunizations, schedule an appointment or call 866-550-4719today.