Vaccines
Content added June 25, 2025
Different vaccines work in different ways, but every vaccine helps the body’s immune system learn how to fight germs. It typically takes a few weeks for protection to develop after vaccination, but that protection can last a lifetime. A few vaccines, such as those for tetanus or seasonal flu, require occasional booster doses to maintain the body’s defenses. Immunity is the body’s way of preventing disease. Vaccines can prevent common diseases that used to seriously harm or even kill infants, children, and adults.
Before a new vaccine is ever given to people, a lot of lab testing is done. Once testing in people begins, it can still take years before clinical studies are complete, and the vaccine is licensed. Vaccines, like medicine, can have some side effects. But most people who get vaccinated have only mild side effects or none at all. Serious, long-lasting side effects are extremely rare. We know they are rare because CDC tracks and investigates reports of serious side effects. For additional information about vaccines for children, click here. Reasons to Vaccinate | Childhood Vaccines | CDC. Click here for vaccine information for adults: Source: Vaccines & Immunizations | Vaccines & Immunizations | CDC.
You can receive vaccines/immunizations for yourself and your children at your primary care provider’s office. Vaccines are also available at Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services at 701 E. Broadway, 573-874-7249. Vaccines are covered by insurance. Public Health and Human Services has a special program that can pay for vaccines if you do not have insurance. See link below for additional information about vaccines.