| Immunizations are in important aspect of routine health care for both children and adults. Children should be immunized against measles, mumps, German measles, poliomyelitis, tetanus, whooping cough, diphtheria, chickenpox, Hemophilius influenzae B, and Hepatitis B. Adults who have not been immunized against these diseases should see their primary care doctor or local health clinic. Tetanus booster shots are recommended every 10 years. A flu shot is an elective, seasonal immunization that is adjusted each year based on expert prediction of the most prevalent strain of the influenza virus that will strike people. Immunizations have been overwhelmingly effective in the United States and internationally in eradicating certain diseases, including small pox and diphtheria, from the human population. In most cases, side effects from immunizations are mild. |
