Immunizations

Immunizations, or vaccines, play a vital role in keeping families healthy, from childhood through adulthood. By helping the body build protection against serious illnesses, vaccines reduce the spread of disease in the community and protect those who are most vulnerable. At Collierville Family Health in Collierville, Tennessee, Felicia Hamilton-Gray, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, and the team provide vaccines for children, teens, and adults, including immunizations covered under the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. To learn more about vaccines, call the office or request one online today. 

What are immunizations?

Immunizations are preventive treatments designed to help the immune system recognize and fight harmful viruses and bacteria. They contain either weakened or inactive parts of a germ, or instructions that teach the body how to respond if it encounters the real infection in the future. This allows the immune system to build defenses—known as immunity—without causing the illness itself. Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective tools available to protect against disease.

What are the benefits of immunizations?

The benefits of vaccines go far beyond individual protection. Immunizations safeguard people from serious diseases such as measles, polio, influenza, and whooping cough, which can cause complications or even death. Vaccines also help reduce the spread of disease in schools, workplaces, and communities, creating what is known as herd immunity.

For children, vaccines are especially important. Because their immune systems are still developing, they are more vulnerable to infections. Routine childhood immunizations protect against dangerous illnesses like diphtheria, hepatitis B, meningitis, and chickenpox. Programs such as the Vaccines for Children (VFC) initiative ensure that eligible children have access to these important immunizations, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.

For adults, vaccines provide ongoing protection as immunity can fade over time, and new vaccines—such as those for shingles or COVID-19—become available. Staying up-to-date helps protect both personal health and the health of loved ones.

Are there risks associated with immunizations?

Like any medical treatment, immunizations can cause side effects, though they are usually mild and temporary. Common reactions may include a sore arm, low-grade fever, or fatigue for a day or two after vaccination. These effects are normal signs that the body is building immunity. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccines greatly outweigh the risks. Family medicine providers review each patient’s medical history to ensure immunizations are safe and appropriate.

What immunizations are available?

A wide range of immunizations is available for children, teens, and adults. For children, the recommended schedule includes vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis A and B, and more. Through the VFC program, eligible children can receive these vaccines at no cost.

Teens may receive boosters as well as vaccines for HPV and meningococcal disease. Adults often need seasonal flu shots, tetanus boosters, shingles vaccines, pneumococcal vaccines, and COVID-19 vaccines. Family medicine practices can help patients stay current with recommended immunizations based on age, health history, and lifestyle.

Immunizations are a safe and effective way to prevent illness and keep families healthy at every stage of life. Whether it’s ensuring your child stays on track with their immunization schedule, receiving an annual flu shot, or staying protected as an adult, your family medicine provider can guide you every step of the way.

To learn more about immunizations, call Collierville Family Health or request an appointment online today.