How Do Vaccines Work?
Vaccines introduce a minuscule amount of inactivated microorganisms that mimic the virus being combatted, triggering an immune response in your body to help it build immunity to a particular illness without the risk of severe sickness or death. As a result, when you are exposed to the real disease later on, your body is better equipped to fend off the infection.
Vaccination is a preventative measure that can protect against illness or minimize its impact – not only does it prevent disease, but it also saving time, money, and resources in the long run.
Our Offered Vaccines
- COVID Vaccine
- Dengue Vaccine
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, & Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine
- Haemophilus Influenzae Type B (Hib) Vaccine
- Hepatitis A Vaccine
- Hepatitis B Vaccine
- HPV Vaccine
- Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine
- Influenza (Seasonal Flu) Vaccine
- Meningitis Vaccine
- Meningococcal B (MenB) Vaccine
- Meningococcal Vaccine
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, & Rubella) Vaccine
- Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
- Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine
- Rotavirus Vaccine
- Shingles Vaccine
- Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine
Our Most Commonly Administered Vaccines
Flu Vaccine
Dealing with the sniffs and coughs of the flu, also known as influenza, is as American as apple pie. Every season can have varying impacts, with millions of Americans suffering from the flu each year, with some severe cases even requiring hospitalization. The seasonal flu shot is a way to protect yourself from the flu by causing your body to produce antibodies that shield against the virus. This immunity typically develops within two weeks of receiving the flu vaccine.
Pneumonia Vaccine
Pneumonia vaccinations are commonly recommended for children under the age of two, adults over the age of 65, adults with certain underlying medical conditions, and/or smokers.
HPV Vaccine (Human Papillomavirus)
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are designed to protect against various types of HPV, which are responsible for several types of cancer. These vaccines come in different formulations, with some protecting against two, four, or nine types of HPV. This being said, all HPV vaccines protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which are the most dangerous strains that can cause cancer.
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles, also known as varicella-zoster, is a painful condition that results in a rash on the face or torso. The rash typically consists of blisters that crust over within a week to 10 days, and disappears within 2 to 4 weeks. Unfortunately, for some individuals, the pain can last for months or even years after the rash has cleared. The risk of getting shingles increases as you age.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccine (TDAP)
If you have never been vaccinated against Tdap, it is important to speak with your primary care physician about getting immunized. The CDC recommends getting a Tdap vaccination once every 10 years. However, recommendations may change over time and your doctor at Excelsior Healthcare will be able to provide personalized advice based on your unique circumstances.
Hepatitis A and B Vaccine
Hepatitis A and B combination vaccines work by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies. The standard dosing schedule for this vaccine is three doses given over a six-month period. The second dose is given a month after the first and the final dose is given six months after the first dose. It is very important to get the full schedule of doses to ensure the best protection against these potentially serious illnesses – consult with one of our physicians for more information.
Vaccines in Atlanta, Duluth, Norcross, and Alpharetta, GA
As we age, our vaccination needs change. Factors such as our health, previous vaccinations, and lifestyle all play a role in determining which vaccines are appropriate for us. It’s important for us to stay informed and up to date on recommended vaccinations to ensure optimal health and protection against preventable diseases. To consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your individual needs and determine the best vaccination plan for you, set an appointment with Excelsior Healthcare here, call us at 770-246-6100, or email us at contact@excelsiorhealthcare.com.
