You may have read things on the Internet
that made you think twice about getting
vaccines or having your children get
them. For example, some parents still
worry that vaccines cause autism, even
though many scientific studies show there
is no link.
Skipping a needed vaccine can leave
you and your family at risk of a
serious disease. Outbreaks do occur.
Even illnesses such as measles can
sometimes kill.
Your doctor can help answer questions
about vaccines and when they’re
needed. You can also check reliable
sources online, such as the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) at
cdc.gov/vaccines
. The
CDC and other experts offer the
following information:
Vaccines undergo rigorous testing to
make sure they are safe and that they
work. It can take a decade or longer
before they’re approved. Even then,
scientists continue to monitor the vaccine
for any problems. There are also regular
inspections of manufacturing plants.
Are there risks? Vaccines are like all
medications in that they can have side
effects. If they occur, they are almost
always minor, such as a fever or soreness
at the injection site. If you do have a
reaction, let your doctor know. Go to
the hospital if the reaction seems severe
(though this is very rare).
Some people shouldn’t get certain vaccines.
Sometimes they may need to wait. This
may include children with weak immune
systems and anyone who’s had a past severe
reaction to a vaccine. Your doctor can
help decide what’s right for you.
References: See page 7
Are
vaccines
safe?
Your teeth
give clues
to overall
health
What your dentist sees in your
mouth amounts to more than just
the health of your gums and teeth.
There is a strong relationship
between the health of your
mouth and your general health,
according to the American
Dental Association.
Regular trips to your dentist can be
an important part of preventing,
diagnosing, and treating serious
health conditions.
Poor oral health is associated
with many health problems, such
as these:
•
Tooth decay (cavities), which
can cause pain and absence
from school or work.
•
Periodontal (gum) disease,
caused by an infection under
the gums. It can cause teeth
to become loose, making
chewing difficult. Periodontal
disease can be related to
heart disease, stroke, and
bacterial pneumonia.
•
Dry mouth, or a lack of saliva,
caused by age, disease, or
medications. Dry mouth raises
the risk of tooth decay.
Oral health can also be affected
by poor nutrition and tobacco,
alcohol, and illicit drug use.
Practice good daily oral hygiene.
Brush and floss your teeth, and get
regular dental checkups.
References: See page 7
selecthealth.org
| spring 2014 | Total Fitness
5
the doctor is in
