Understanding Vaccines:
Your Shield Against Dangerous Diseases
Available Vaccines
What Are Vaccines?
Vaccines can be shots (injections), liquids, pills, or nasal sprays that help protect us from harmful germs called viruses and bacteria. These invisible invaders can make us very sick, causing diseases like the flu, measles, or chickenpox. Fortunately for us, there are vaccines to protect against infections caused by:
- Viruses, like the ones that cause the flu and COVID-19
- Bacteria, including tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis
Vaccines help our immune system recognize and fight these germs. When you get a vaccine, it defends you if those germs ever try to attack.
Why Are Vaccines Important?
Vaccines are crucial because they keep us healthy and prevent diseases from spreading in our communities. Imagine if there were no vaccines – illnesses like polio and smallpox would still be a threat, and many people would get sick or even die. Many of these dangerous diseases have become rare or disappeared completely thanks to vaccines.
When many people get vaccinated, we create a “shield” around our community, making it harder for germs to find a host and spread. This concept is called herd immunity, and it helps protect those who can’t get vaccinated, like babies or people with specific health problems.
Your Role in Vaccine Safety
Getting vaccinated is a responsible and caring thing to do for yourself and everyone around you. Doctors and scientists work very hard to ensure vaccines are safe and effective before giving them to people. They undergo lots of testing and research to ensure they work well and won’t harm us. So, when it’s your turn to get a vaccine, remember that it’s a way to keep yourself and those you care about safe and healthy.
Are Vaccines Safe?
Vaccines are safe. They are tested for safety and highly evaluated before getting approval in the United States.
Vaccines Available at Bergen New Bridge and Our CareRite Now Locations
We offer several vaccines to help protect you and your loved ones and to meet school and work requirements. Click on a vaccine’s name for more information on getting the vaccine from us.
