Nearly everyone, at every stage of life. Vaccines protect infants and children from diseases like measles and whooping cough, give teens boosters plus meningitis, HPV, and flu coverage, and shield anyone from seasonal viruses. They matter most for healthcare workers and people with conditions that raise their risk of serious illness.

The frequency of vaccinations depends on the specific vaccine and individual health needs: Routine Vaccines : Some vaccines require multiple doses initially, followed by booster shots at certain intervals. For example, the tetanus booster is recommended every 10 years. Flu Vaccine : It’s recommended annually due to changes in flu virus strains. COVID-19 Vaccine : Initial doses and boosters may be needed based on current guidelines and personal health factors. Immunization for Travel : Timing depends on the destination and the specific travel vaccine required; consult with a healthcare provider before traveling. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for vaccines and boosters based on your health status and lifestyle.

In the past few years, especially with COVID-19, you may have heard the term “herd immunity.” While it’s not a new term, herd immunity, also known as community immunity, occurs when a large portion of the population becomes immune to a contagious disease, providing protection for those who can’t be vaccinated. Simply put, when you limit the opportunity for the infection to spread, you limit the number of people who are contagious.

Yes. There are still vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S., including measles and whooping cough (pertussis), which have seen a resurgence in the last few years. Your kids should be immunized to protect them from these and other serious diseases that can cause death or disability. Vaccines can also help protect babies who are too young to be fully immunized and people who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons. In some states, children need to be up to date on their immunizations before they start school.

Yes. Vaccines undergo constant study and rigorous testing, including clinical trials, to ensure their safety before they can ever be approved for use. Your child is far more likely to become seriously ill from a vaccine-preventable disease than from the immunization itself. Vaccine safety is monitored closely, with side effects usually mild and temporary, such as swelling, redness at the vaccination site, or a low-grade fever. If, in the rare event, you experience an allergic reaction to a vaccine, contact 911 or visit your local ER.