Few people would think about venturing out into sub-zero temperatures without a coat, so why would you mingle in close contact with crowds of people without the proper vaccinations against airborne diseases like influenza?
That’s how the health professionals at the Van Buren Cass District Health Department view the benefits of getting vaccinated – along with eating healthy, exercising, and washing your hands, vaccines add a layer of protection against common viruses that can sometimes result in severe sickness and even death.
Dr. Larry Wile is the Medical Director at the Van Buren Cass District Health Department and said vaccination is one of the most effective tools in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. While vaccines are commonly associated with childhood immunizations, Dr. Wile said it’s essential for both adults and young people to stay up to date on recommended vaccines.
One that’s severely underutilized is the flu vaccine. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, As of the beginning of December, only 37% of U.S. children have received a flu vaccine; among adults, the vaccination rate is 39%.
Dr. Wile said some people still believe you can contract the flu from the vaccine and that is a myth.
“The flu vaccine is not a live vaccine. It’s made of inactivated particles and it’s not something that’s going to give you the flu. Some people have a mild reaction, and it can make you feel a little crummy, but do you get the influenza virus from the flu shot? That answer is no.”
The health department strongly encourages all individuals, regardless of age, to prioritize vaccinations to protect themselves and their communities.
Department officials say for young people, vaccines are crucial in preventing serious illnesses such as measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which can lead to various cancers later in life. Adolescence is also a key time to receive boosters for vaccines such as Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and the meningococcal vaccine, which guards against potentially fatal infections.
Adults, too, need to stay current with their immunization schedules. Many adults have missed vaccines or require boosters that provide protection throughout life. For example, flu vaccines are recommended annually to reduce the risk of flu outbreaks, particularly for those in high-risk groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, or individuals with chronic conditions. The shingles vaccine, recommended for older adults, prevents the painful and debilitating effects of shingles, a reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
“Vaccinations are not just about individual health; they also protect vulnerable populations who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. By vaccinating, we help reduce the overall burden of disease and prevent outbreaks that could overwhelm healthcare systems.”
Van Buren Cass District Health Department offers comprehensive immunization services for adults. They offer routine vaccines, MI-AVP program vaccines, COVID-19 vaccination year-round, and seasonal flu shots. They also offer essential vaccines for school-age children.
For questions and to schedule an immunization appointment, you can call the Van Buren Cass District Health Department at 269-740-4155.
