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Our Services / Vaccinations

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About Vaccinations

Vaccinations teach your immune system how to protect your body from common contagious germs. These vaccinations may potentially prevent you from getting sick or developing serious symptoms after contact with the germ. Midsouth Independent Group (MIG) providers in Memphis, Martin, and Germantown, Tennessee, and Holly Springs, Mississippi, offer vaccinations. Contact a Midsouth Independent Group provider today. 

Vaccinations Q & A

What are vaccinations?

Vaccinations are a tool your MIG provider uses to protect you from contagious diseases. They give most vaccinations by injection. However, some vaccinations may be a nasal spray, liquid, or pill.

How do vaccinations work?

Vaccinations work by triggering your immune system to create a defense mechanism against specific germs. Vaccines contain weakened germs, dead germs, or unique pieces of the germ.

Your body recognizes the substance in the vaccine as harmful to your health. Your immune system creates antibodies — disease-fighting cells — that protect you the next time you come in contact with the disease-causing germ.

Vaccines help your body build its own defense system against germs without you ever getting sick.   

What types of vaccinations do I need?

Your MIG provider determines what types of vaccinations you need based on your age, overall health, and risk of exposure. They follow the vaccination guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, providing vaccinations for children and adults. 

Some of the most common types of vaccinations include:

  • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)

  • Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP)

  • Rotavirus

  • Hepatitis B

  • Smallpox

  • Chickenpox

  • Polio

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)

  • COVID-19

  • Influenza

     

Vaccinations start at birth and continue throughout childhood and adolescence. Adults may need booster shots for vaccines they received as a child or teen. 

Adults also need vaccines to protect against certain illnesses, such as shingles and pneumonia.

Your MIG provider recommends you get the flu vaccine every year. 

Are vaccinations safe?

Vaccinations are safe. In the United States, every vaccine undergoes extensive testing before being offered to the general public. Additionally, each new batch of a vaccine is thoroughly tested. 

However, you may experience a mild reaction after receiving a vaccine. Common side effects include pain and swelling at the site of your injection, fever, or body aches. These side effects usually resolve within a few days. 

Though rare, some people have allergic reactions to vaccines. Your MIG provider can talk to you about vaccinations if you have concerns about an allergic reaction or a history of an allergic reaction to a vaccine.

Find out more about vaccination by contacting a Midsouth Independent Group provider today.