IMMUNIZATIONS
Questions & Answers

Q: Why does my baby need immunizations or baby shots?
A: Getting baby shots will protect your baby from diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, red measles, mumps, rubella, Hib disease, chicken pox and hepatitis B. These diseases can cause pain, fever, rashes, coughs, sore throats, hearing loss, blindness, crippling, brain damage and death.

Q: Why does my baby have to get so many baby shots?
A: There are different shots for different diseases. Baby shots must be given at certain times to protect your baby from these diseases. See the schedule below.

Q: I have not heard of some of the diseases. Are they a problem for my baby?
A: YES, these diseases are a problem. Your baby could get any of these diseases like measles, mumps or pertussis if he/she does not get all of his/her baby shots on time. Baby shots work so well that we often do not see many people with these diseases.

Q: Will baby shots make my baby sick?
A: Some babies may be cranky, run a low fever, be sore, red or swollen where the shot was given. It is very rare for a child to get very sick after a shot. Call your health care provider right away if your child: has a very high fever, is very sleepy and hard to wake up, is very pale or limp, cries for 3 or more hours, jerks or cannot control how he or she moves.

Q: Are baby shots going to hurt my baby?
A: Getting any kind of shot can hurt a little—but it will only last a few moments. Hold and snuggle your baby after they get a shot. Tell your child how good they were and that everything is okay. Remember, baby shots protect against dangerous diseases.

Q:When can my baby go back to day care after getting baby shots?
A: Your baby may return to day care right after you leave the health care provider's office. There is no reason to keep them out of day care after getting shots. Some parents take their babies for shots on days that will give them more time together afterward. It's up to you.

Q: How much do baby shots cost?
A: There is no charge for baby shots at the Duplin County Health Department.

Q: When can I bring my baby in for a shot?
A: Call the Health Department at 296-2130 and make an appointment. Also, look for special immunization clinics that may be held in the evenings.

REMEMBER, giving your baby their shots on time gives your baby a healthy start! Your baby is counting on you. Be smart from the start. Health is the Prize when you Immunize!

ADULT IMMUNIZATIONS

Why do Adults need Immunizations?
Many people think immunizations or 'shots' are just for kids. Adults also need immunizations to help protect them against certain diseases. Sometimes adult shots make up for shots not given during childhood. And, sometimes they 'boost' protection that may be wearing off.

What shots do adults need?
Like children, it depends upon age. An adult's health, work and lifestyle also affect which shots are needed.

Are there side effects to adult shots?
Adult and childhood vaccines are among the safest and most effective medicines available. Common side effects in adults are a low fever and/or a sore arm. Vaccines will not interfere with your current medicines. Talk with your HealthCare provider if you have any questions about which immunizations are recommended for You!

What Adult Immunization Services are available at the Health Department?
The Duplin County Health Department provides Adult immunizations daily, Monday through Friday, by appointment.

Vaccines available:

• Adult Tetanus Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A & B
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella
• Pneumococcal
• Influenza
• Rabies -pre-exposure (by pre-paid order)
• Varicella (by pre-paid order)
• Travel Vaccinations * see travel immunization information

How much do adult shots cost?
Fees vary according to the vaccine requested. Please call our Billing Dept. for more information on fees.

TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT OR GET MORE INFORMATION ON ADULT IMMUNIZATIONS, CALL: 296-2130.