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Common Vaccine Myths & Facts

Prepare yourself to educate your adult patients during clinical encounters.

01

You cannot get the diseases from vaccines.

Most vaccines contain inactivated or weakened viruses, meaning they can’t cause the disease. Live vaccines may cause mild side effects, but never the actual illness. Vaccine side effects might feel like illness because your immune system is responding to the inactivated or weakened viruses in the vaccine, making your body more prepared to fight off the actual disease.

02

Vaccines do not cause autism.

This myth emerged from a discredited study, and extensive research has shown there’s no link between vaccines and autism.

03

Relying solely on natural immunity to prevent illness from infection is not safer than getting vaccinated.

While natural immunity can be robust for many diseases, experiencing the actual infection comes with many health risks. Vaccines can support you and your family in preventing serious illness and long-term side effects from an infectious disease.

04

Vaccines do not contain harmful ingredients.

Vaccine ingredients are present in tiny amounts and are rigorously tested for safety. Many are naturally occurring, making them safe for you and your family.

05

Vaccines do not overwhelm the immune system.

We encounter many germs daily! Vaccines work with the immune system, not against it, and are given in safe doses.

06

Vaccines are still necessary even if the diseases are rare.

Thanks to vaccines, diseases are less common, but outbreaks can happen if vaccination rates drop. Herd immunity is the key to keeping everyone safe!

07

Vaccines safety is rigorously studied and monitored. Benefits of vaccines vastly outweigh the risks of very rare severe side effects.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, like a little soreness or a low-grade fever. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

08

You should not skip vaccines and catch up later.

Delaying vaccinations leaves you and your family vulnerable to potentially serious illness when you may not be prepared for it.

09

Flu vaccines are effective against severe disease.

While effectiveness may vary by season, flu vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

10

Vaccines will protect other Philadelphians.

Vaccines also protect the whole community by achieving herd immunity. Working together keeps everyone safe and healthy!