Vaccines provide protection from highly contagious infections, such as flu, HPV, whooping cough, and Covid. Vaccines are typically injections designed to stimulate your immune system to strongly fight off these infections, thereby protecting you from the diseases they cause. According to the CDC, “A vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, exactly like it would if you were exposed to the disease. After getting vaccinated, you develop immunity to that disease, without having to get the disease first. This is what makes vaccines such powerful medicine.” At Horizons Health & Wellness, we administer vaccinations against flu, tetanus, whooping cough, HPV, and coming soon, COVID-19 shots.
FLU Vaccinations
Influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause serious complications, particularly in young children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions. Getting an influenza vaccine — though not 100% effective — is the best way to prevent the misery of the flu and its complications. Types of influenza (flu) vaccines include the injection (killed virus) and recombinant (made without flu virus). The seasonal flu vaccine effectiveness is dependent upon the extent of the match between the virus strains used to prepare the vaccine and those viruses in actual circulation in the community. The age and health status of the individual also play a role in determining vaccine effectiveness. The influenza virus mutates often, therefore yearly flu shots are recommended to provide the best protection.
HPV Vaccinations
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is one of the most common Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), so it’s a big relief to know that vaccines will protect you against the most problematic strains that can lead to cancer or genital warts. At Horizons Health & Wellness, we specialize in preventive actions for women’s gynecological health. Call us today to speak with our knowledgeable providers for more information.
COVID-19
COVID-19 vaccines are widely available in the state of Massachusetts for individuals 12yrs old and up. They are not yet available in our office, however, we anticipate that will change soon. Click here for information on how to obtain a COVID vaccine in Massachusetts. Click here for information regarding COVID-19.
TDAP Vaccinations
Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (also known as DTaP) is a combination injectable vaccine providing protection against infections caused by diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough). This vaccine is given to children six weeks through six years of age (before the child’s 7th birthday), as well as every 10 years in adults, and to all pregnant women in their third trimester, every pregnancy. Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis are serious diseases that can cause life-threatening illnesses. Although some serious side effects can occur after a dose of DTaP, this rarely happens. The chance of you or your child catching one of these diseases, and being permanently injured or dying as a result, is much greater than the chance of getting a serious side effect from the DTaP vaccine. Vaccinations will be administered through your healthcare provider.
Vaccinations in Bridgewater, MA
Interested in preventative care to help jump-start your wellness? Horizons Health & Wellness is right for you! If you’re ready to get started, please click the appointment button below or contact us at (508) 807-0634. We look forward to hearing from you.