What are vaccines?

Vaccines help protect you and your child from infectious diseases and reduce the spread of outbreaks. While they may not prevent every infection, vaccinated people usually have much milder illness. Most vaccines are given as shots, though some come as pills, liquids, or nasal sprays.

Why get vaccinated?

Vaccines save lives and help protect people with weak immune systems who can’t be vaccinated. Other benefits include:

• Lower cost compared to treating the disease
• Far greater risk from the disease than from the vaccine
• Often required for school, work, or travel

Side Effects

Most reactions are mild, such as:

• Redness or soreness at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Irritability or low appetite
• Occasional rash or joint pain after certain vaccines

Serious reactions are rare. Seek medical help if you notice unusual symptoms.

Vaccine Safety

Vaccines are thoroughly tested and monitored by the FDA and safety reporting systems like VAERS. Serious complications from diseases are much more common than vaccine-related issues. Research shows no link between vaccines and autism. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.