As health needs evolve throughout life, it can be easy to forget how crucial vaccinations can be for protection against preventable diseases. Many people associate vaccines with childhood, remembering the series of shots received during early school years. However, vaccination importance extends far beyond children attending elementary school and college students returning to campuses. They should be incorporated into a lifelong commitment to health and wellness.
Whether required or recommended, vaccinations can play a pivotal role in safeguarding individual health and promoting community well-being. According to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccines help create protective antibodies that fight infections. CDC states childhood vaccinations, such as MMR (measles, mumps and rubeola), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and HPV, are known to prevent around 4 million global deaths annually. However, only 1 in 5 adults are up to date on their vaccines, highlighting a critical gap in public health awareness and readiness.
Vaccines train immune systems to recognize and combat harmful viruses or bacteria. The immune system’s efficiency can decrease while aging, making older people more susceptible to diseases. That’s why staying current with recommended vaccines is essential, CDC notes.
Community pharmacies and clinics are accessible options for people seeking healthcare outside of traditional settings. These facilities offer a range of high-quality services, including medication counseling, health screenings and immunizations.
This convenience is crucial for routine preventive care, including year-round vaccine administration, which should not be limited to a single season. Vulnerable populations, including those 60 and older, individuals with chronic diseases, and some minority populations are more at risk for contracting certain infections. They may need to update vaccinations and boosters throughout the year.
Unlike some traditional healthcare settings, retail pharmacies and clinics often have extended hours that cater to busy schedules, allowing people to get their families vaccinated with more flexibility. In fact, 90 percent of the U.S. population lives within five miles of a community pharmacy. Options like the Kroger companies’ pharmacies (Kroger.com/vaccinations), The Little Clinic, and other retail pharmacies offer vaccines.
Source: Family Features
LOOKING FOR A SHOT?
In addition to retail pharmacies and clinics, information on vaccinations and where to get them is available from the health departments for Tacoma-Pierce County (tpchd.org, 253-649-1500) and Seattle-King County (kingcounty.gov, 206-296-4774).