Which vaccines should I get? A guide from CityMD.

What vaccines are really necessary?

When it comes to vaccines, it's natural to wonder which ones are truly essential. The answer can vary based on your age, health status and lifestyle.

To help you make informed decisions, here's a breakdown of some vaccines generally considered necessary for different groups. Remember that this is a general guideline, talk to your doctor about which immunizations are right for you.

• Childhood vaccines. Vaccines like the MMR, polio and DTaP vaccines are crucial for kids. They're school entry requirements, guarding against serious childhood diseases.
• Influenza vaccine. The annual flu shot is a must. It shields against seasonal flu and is vital for children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with health conditions.
• HPV vaccine. For adolescents and young adults, the HPV vaccine is key. It prevents cancers linked to the human papillomavirus.
• Travel vaccines. These can include vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid and others, depending on where you're going.
• Shingles vaccine. If you're over 50 years old, consider the shingles vaccine. It prevents a painful condition for those who have had chickenpox.
• COVID-19 vaccine. In the COVID-19 era, this vaccine is a top recommendation. Stay updated with health authority guidelines.
• Tetanus booster. A tetanus booster shot every ten years is essential to protect you in case of injury or wounds.

While these vaccines cover a range of age groups and health needs, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider at your local CityMD. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your health history and lifestyle.

What vaccine should I get?

The choice of vaccines depends on various factors, and here's a closer look.

• Routine vaccines matter. Don't skip the basics. Stay up to date with routine shots like flu, tetanus and COVID-19 to protect your health and the community.
• Age and life stage. Different life stages call for different vaccines. Young children need vaccines like MMR and DTaP, while older adults may require protection against shingles.
• Travel considerations. If you're planning a trip, research vaccine requirements for your destination. Certain places may have specific health risks that require additional vaccines.
• Medical history. Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider. Some underlying health conditions may require extra vaccinations to keep you safe.
• Community impact. Remember that getting vaccinated isn't just about you. It's a community effort.
• Stay informed. Keep a close eye on the guidelines from reputable health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. They continuously update recommendations based on the latest research and public health needs.

When deciding which vaccines to get, consider these factors and consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice. CityMD does not offer vaccines for COVID-19, HPV, yellow fever or typhoid which is available by prescription only.

What vaccines do I need before I travel?

Traveling is an adventure, but it's vital to stay safe, especially when visiting different parts of the world. Here are some essential travel vaccines to consider.

• Routine vaccines. Ensure your routine vaccines, like MMR, polio and the annual flu shot, are up to date.
• Hepatitis A and B. Consider these vaccines, particularly if you're traveling to regions where these viruses are prevalent. CityMD offers Hepatitis A which spreads through contaminated food and water.
• Typhoid. This vaccine is recommended for travelers going to areas with poor sanitation. Unfortunately, there’s a shortage of this vaccine. CityMD physicians can provide a prescription for the oral version of this vaccine, but it may be difficult to find a pharmacy that has it in stock.
• Yellow fever. For certain destinations in Africa and South America, a yellow fever vaccine and certificate of vaccination may be required for entry.
• Malaria. Depending on your travel location, you may need malaria prophylaxis, which includes medications rather than vaccines. CityMD offers preventative or prophylaxis medications for malaria if you are traveling to a high-risk area.
• Meningococcal. Some countries in Africa have a risk of meningococcal disease. If you're traveling to these regions, consider this vaccine.
• Rabies. If your travels involve interactions with animals or remote areas where access to medical care is limited, a rabies vaccine may be considered.
• COVID-19. Stay informed about the COVID-19 vaccination requirements and guidelines for your destination. Many countries have specific entry and testing requirements.

Vaccines at CityMD.

We understand that making the right vaccination choices can be a complex task, so we're here to simplify it for you. CityMD is here to provide guidance and offers many vaccines including the flu shot, shingles and tetanus shots.

Your health is our priority, and we're committed to being your partner in protecting it.