Immunizations

Immunizations or vaccines are a crucial part of preventive healthcare, offering essential protection for both children and adults against various infectious diseases.

Immunizations involve introducing a weakened or dead virus or bacteria into your body, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies. This prepares your body to efficiently combat the disease if you are later exposed to the disease-causing organism, providing effective protection against infections.

At Destiny Internal Medicine, we prioritize your health throughout all life stages. Our devoted team of healthcare professionals is here to assist you in receiving the right vaccines for your specific health needs and lifestyle. 

Vaccines are really important in modern medicine because they help protect us from serious diseases. The advantages of immunizations are extensive and profound. These include: 

• Preventing serious illnesses: Vaccines train your immune system and body to fight off harmful pathogens, preventing severe illnesses.
• Herd immunity: Vaccination in a significant portion of the population reduces the overall occurrence of diseases, protecting those who cannot receive the vaccine. This collective immunity is essential for community well-being.
• Cost-effectiveness: Prevention through vaccines proves more economical than managing or treating diseases. 
• Eradication of diseases: Vaccines have historically played a pivotal role in eliminating diseases, as seen with smallpox. Ongoing vaccination efforts aim to eradicate more diseases, contributing to a safer world.
• Protection for future generations: Vaccines ensure future generations' health and well-being by eradicating diseases today.

At Destiny Internal Medicine, your health and safety are our top priorities. We are deeply committed to facilitating this crucial aspect of preventive healthcare. We offer a range of vaccines tailored for different age groups to ensure comprehensive protection for our patients.

Even as an adult, you may require protection against various diseases. Some of the vaccines include:

• Annual Influenza Vaccine: Recommended each year to guard against the flu.
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: Advised every ten years to prevent these three illnesses.
• Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for adults over 50 to prevent shingles.
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: Safeguards against pneumonia and is advised for adults over 65 or those with specific health conditions.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine: For adults who missed it earlier, this vaccine helps prevent certain cancers.
• Hepatitis A and B Vaccines: Suggested for adults who didn't receive them as children or are at risk due to certain factors.

Vaccine requirements can vary depending on your unique health situation. It's advisable to collaborate with your primary care physician to identify the vaccines you may need. 

Vaccine boosters are extra doses of a vaccine you've previously received to reinforce your immunity. Adult booster vaccines include:

• Tdap booster (recommended every ten years)
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) booster (for those at high risk)
• Varicella (chickenpox) booster (for those at high risk)

As the body and immunity naturally weaken with age, it's often advised for older adults to receive the following vaccines for enhanced protection against specific diseases:

1. Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Recommended annually due to the rapidly evolving nature of flu viruses.
2. Pneumococcal Vaccines: These guard against pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. 
3. Shingles Vaccine: Two options, Zostavax and Shingrix, are available to prevent shingles.
4. Tdap or Td booster: Tdap defends against whooping cough and tetanus, while the Td booster protects against tetanus and diphtheria. 
5. COVID-19 Vaccine: Elderly adults must get vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive the necessary boosters. 

It is crucial to consult with your primary care service provider to determine specific vaccine needs based on your health history.

Immunization safety is crucial for their effectiveness and the well-being of both children and adults. Vaccines undergo thorough, rigorous surveillance and monitoring by the medical community, starting from development and continuing even after authorization. 

The CDC's Immunization Safety Office plays a pivotal role, utilizing diverse strategies to evaluate and manage concerns about vaccine safety. 

Vaccines are crucial for individual and community health. Ensuring your health is our priority at Destiny Internal Medicine in Aurora, CO. Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive range of vaccines, from routine shots to condition-specific ones. Get comprehensive immunizations for a healthier future. Schedule your vaccination appointment now.

To schedule an appointment with one of our providers, call us at 720-324-4777 or request an appointment online.