The Real Deal about Vaccines

The Real Deal about Vaccines

When vaccines were first introduced in to the market, they were regarded as the world’s greatest lifesavers. However, when you look over the history of vaccination, you’ll realize that it has not really been a very smooth, uphill ride. At their inception, vaccines were regarded as the greatest gift that modern technology could have given to mankind. At present, vaccines are often considered with a bit of scrutiny, and are likely to be a source of a debate between two people, while they are also likely to cause suspicion. Will we ever be able to reach a point where the disadvantages and the benefits of vaccines reach a point of equilibrium? It is highly unlikely. However, here are a few facts that science has been able to reveal about vaccinations to date.

Certain vaccines contain mercury

It has been doubted for years that certain vaccines contain mercury. This has proven to be true. Thimerosal, which is a preservative, has a very high content of mercury (around 50%). Thimerosal generally prevents contamination via bacterial infection. A number of very common flu vaccinations contain Thimerosal, as was confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, since the turn of the millennium, Thimerosal hasn’t been used in vaccines for children who are less than 3 years of age. Also, virtually all vaccines can now be found in Thimerosal free versions, while some might contain very minute amounts.

Vaccines can cause side effects

One of the confirmed facts about vaccines is that they can cause side effects. Hence, they can’t be considered completely free of risk. One of the most common side effects associated with vaccination is that they can cause soreness in the area where the injection was inserted, as well as fever. These can be easily treated with ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Other, rarer side effects include seizures. Generally, depending upon the vaccine that you are using, the risks are likely to differ. Also, the chances of side effects being caused are higher in children.

Vaccines aren’t only for kids

One of the most common myths that surround vaccinations is that they are primarily for kids only. However, in truth, there are hundreds of different vaccinations for adults and adolescents which can keep them healthy. For instance, one of the most common is the flu shot, which must be administered on a yearly basis. Moreover, those who live in colleges would benefit greatly from a Meningitis shot before they begin living in a dorm, while adults should also get a pneumonia vaccine in order to prevent contraction. Adults also require vaccines for tetanus as well as pertussis.

Pregnant women can also get vaccines

Another very famous myth that surrounds vaccines is that pregnant women can’t get themselves vaccinated until they have delivered. However, this is not wholly true. As per the regulations provided by the American Academy of Family Physicians, pregnant women should not be given the vaccine for varicella, which is basically chicken pox, while others are safe.