Should your family receive vaccinations? YES

2 0 20 vaccination recommendations from the CDC

There is a related and updated version of this post at this link

With a few exceptions for medical reasons I believe all adults should discuss vaccination with their physician and be immunized for any diseases for which they are at risk.

And I recommend that parents do the same for their children and adolescents.

questions to ask about vaccines and the immunization process include.

What contagious diseases is a person likely to be exposed to?
What are the risks of those diseases?
What are the risks of a particular vaccine for that person?
What are the risks versus benefits to other people?
What else can we do to prevent an infection?

Infectious disease control methods

The developed countries have eliminated or controlled many of the environmental sources of contagious disease by manipulating our environment.

indoor plumbing
water treatment facilities
screens on windows
air purification
wear gloves to prepare food
inspect restaurants
signs in public restrooms reminding us to wash our hands.

Hand hygiene saves lives. — Hygiene remains vital to infection prevention even when immunizations are given.

However, we haven’t eliminated another source of infectious disease- other humans.

Rarely do we isolate or quarantine people with infections. Most of us have gone to work, school or social events with symptoms suggestive of infection- a cough, runny nose, upset stomach- putting our friends and colleagues at risk.

This coronavirus pandemic is serious. We don’t yet have a vaccine or effective treatments. To protect ourselves, our familes, and our entire communities we should all be practicing social distancing until advised otherwise. Please review these guidelines to prevent spead of this disease.

15 DAYS TO SLOW THE SPREAD

RESOURCES FOR understanding COVID-19

an electron microscope image of the coronavirus — used with permission, CDC.GOV

Tips from your Family Doctor

CDC-Coronavirus Disease 2019

exploring and sharing the HEART of health

Thanks for reading and sharing this important information about protecting the HEART of health.

Dr. Aletha

These may be good options as long as we need to stay in our homes.

a way to exercise at home

a way to get medical supplies delivered

a source for food if you don’t have local delivery

homeschool resources

Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me. View all posts by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.