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Immunization

Immunizations, also known as vaccinations or vaccines, are a medical tool used to protect individuals from specific diseases by stimulating the immune system to produce an immune response without causing the disease itself. Vaccines contain weakened or inactivated forms of the disease-causing microorganism (bacteria or virus) or a part of it (antigen).

 

 

Here's how immunizations work:

1. Vaccine triggers immune response.

2. Immune system produces antibodies and activates cells against vaccine antigens.

3. Body forms memory cells for future pathogen recognition.

4. Rapid immune response upon exposure prevents or reduces illness.

Common vaccines include those for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, influenza, and many more.  Immunizations are a crucial tool in public health and have saved countless lives. They prevent the spread of many infectious diseases.

Video Credit: Center for Disease Control
Video Credit: Alliance for Aging Research

Where to Get Vaccinated

The best place for you to get your vaccine is at your Primary Care Provider. Simply call and schedule your appointment today. If you do not have a Primary Care Provider, you can become a patient at Hometown Health Centers and receive your vaccine at their office.

Do you have questions about vaccines or need help figuring out where to get them? 

 

Call the immunization program nurse at 518-386-2824 ext. 1152.

Vaccination Resources 

Vaccinations are one of the greatest achievements and advances in medicine. Don't hesitate to vaccinate. It's the safest way to protect you and your family from a growing list of serious and life-threatening illnesses.

Perinatal Hepatitis B

Schenectady County Public Health Services can help you if you are pregnant and recently tested positive for Hepatitis B!

LEARN MORE

School Immunization Information

Within the first 14 days of school or daycare, parents/caregivers must: 

  • Show proof of their child's up-to-date vaccinations OR
  • Provide a valid medical exemption from vaccination

 

In order to attend or remain in school or daycare, children who are unvaccinated or overdue must receive at least the first dose of all required vaccines within the first 14 days. They also must plan to receive all follow-up doses at the ages and intervals (time between doses) listed in the recommended vaccination schedule. Learn More

Students attending Schenectady High School or Mont Pleasant Middle School can receive vaccines at school through Hometown Health. Contact the school's clinic to fill out a consent form and access these services.