Children and adults alike need regular vaccines to prevent disease and live well. Some of the most deadly diseases around the world, from polio to smallpox, are prevented via vaccinations. At Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine in Anchorage, AK, the caring doctors recommend everyone receive essential vaccinations. Vaccines have saved millions of lives worldwide and will continue to do so with help from people like you.

Anchorage Doctors Explain 3 Reasons to Get Vaccinated

1. You May Be at Risk of Contracting a Serious Disease

Before the measles vaccine, nearly every American contracted the disease. Today, most doctors have never seen anyone with measles. Before the Diphtheria vaccine, nearly 15,000 people died from it every year. Meanwhile, the CDC™ has only reported two known cases since 2004. Diseases like influenza, pertussis, and shingles remain common in the U.S., and can easily spread to others. When you receive a vaccine, you protect yourself from serious harm.

2. Vaccines Prevent Deadly Diseases From Around the World 

Vaccines protect against conditions like rabies, yellow fever, and typhoid fever, which can be deadly and remain common in other countries. Thus, certain vaccines may be particularly important when traveling. For example, when traveling to subtropical parts of South America, you should always ensure your yellow fever vaccination is current.

3. Vaccines Protect Others

Some people opt out of certain vaccines because they don’t mind taking the risk. For instance, they may believe suffering a few weeks of the influenza virus won’t be too detrimental. However, when you opt out of vaccines, you risk placing others in danger. For example, newborns who are too young to receive vaccinations are especially vulnerable to fatal complications from whooping cough. Children, the elderly, and those who are already ill also possess a higher likelihood of serious complications when they contract conditions like influenza.

Protect yourself and your loved ones when you receive vital vaccines. The experienced health care team from Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine provide all the vaccinations you and your family may need. For more information about the doctors, visit the practice’s website. To inquire about family or travel medicine, call today at (907) 344-0200.