The Importance of Immunizations

OCEAN CITY, Md. – As back to school season starts and flu season begins to creep around the corner, immunization importance is the subject of this week’s Health Beat sponsored by TidalHealth.

Depending on the population being served, immunizations give the body an opportunity to recognize an illness you’ll be presented with in the future, better preparing your immune system to fight off the symptoms that could cause severe outcomes. G.W. Smith, a physician’s assistant with Atlantic General Hospital and TidalHealth Primary Care in Ocean City, spoke with WMDT to discuss the importance of vaccines.

“The facts behind immunizations are this: they’ve been lab tested, lab studied and developed for the betterment of humankind. There’s not any intent against any medical provider to ever cause harm to the population. So if a medical provider is recommending that you receive a vaccination, whether it’s flu, MMR, whether it’s testing for TB, it’s important to get,” Smith says.

Smith also emphasized the value of the conversations between care providers and their patients.

“If you’re in certain groups that have a risk stratification that’s higher than others, then you should absolutely ask your medical provider personally about your health care, [and] whether or not it’s appropriate for you. Are vaccinations appropriate for everybody? Maybe not. There’s allergies. There’s side effects. There’s always a risk. Whether you have surgery or vaccination, there’s a risk,” Smith says.

Smith encourages any patients with concerns or questions to call his office at (410)289-6241, or to schedule an appointment, click here.