Immunization Shot

Immunization (or Immunisation), is the process by which an individual's immune system becomes fortified against an agent (known as the immunogen). An immunization shot is the actual injection used to introduce a vaccine that provides immunization.
When your immune system is exposed to molecules that are foreign to your body, it will generate an immune response, but it can also develop the ability to respond to subsequent encounters.  This is known as active immunization.

The most important elements of the immune system that are improved by immunization are the “B cells” (and the antibodies they produce) and T cells. “Memory B” cell and “memory T” cells are responsible for a swift response to a second encounter with a foreign molecule. Passive immunization is when these elements are introduced directly into the body, instead of when the body itself has to make these elements.

Immunization be done through various techniques, most commonly vaccination with an immunization shot. Vaccines against microorganisms that cause diseases can prepare the body's immune system, thus helping to fight or prevent an infection. You are probably familiar with the annual “Flu Shot”.  This is an Influenza Immunization Shot that most people get each year.
Here are some typical immunization shots that are administered to children:

• Hepatitis-A and Hepatitis-B
• Polio
• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis)
• Pneumo (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Varicella (Chickenpox)

Immunization Shots for Travel - If you are planning to travel outside the United States for business or pleasure, or taking a cruise, you may also be required to be vaccinated or have a booster immunization shot for one or more of the following diseases:

• Tetanus / Diphtheria
• Measles
• Polio
• Meningitis
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Influenza (Flu Shot)
• Rabies

This list is not inclusive and can change based on the countries or Ports of Call you intend to visit.  We can assist you with the current CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommendations for overseas travel as well as prepare the immunization shots for you in our onsite Vaccine Lab.

If you believe that you or a family member should be vaccinated, or need an immunization shot / vaccination for employment, travel, or health reasons, you should seek professional medical advice from a Board Certified/Eligible Allergy and Asthma specialist. If you live in the State of Virginia, consider contacting Richmond Allergy and Asthma Specialists at 1-804-285-7420, or schedule an appointment online. Our specialists are Board Certified/Eligible, they accept referrals from other medical professionals, and the practice does have a certified vaccine laboratory onsite.

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