What is Fully Vaccinated?
Vaccinations are one of the most effective medical interventions in human history, helping to eradicate and reduce cases of deadly infectious diseases like smallpox and measles. Vaccines work by teaching the body’s immune system how to recognize and fight off quickly emerging germs that could potentially cause harm.
The importance of vaccination cannot be overstated and as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us, timely use of safe and effective vaccines can be difficult to deploy and manage. When it comes to forming an effective vaccination program, the concept “fully vaccinated” plays a major role.
What Does Fully Vaccinated Mean?
Fully vaccinated refers to a person who has completed the entire regimen of recommended vaccinations. This means that the person has been vaccinated against all recommended diseases, as determined by the specific health organization that is responsible for vaccine administration in the region. Generally speaking, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sets the standard for how many vaccines a person needs to be “fully vaccinated” in the United States.
The current recommended vaccine schedule for the United States outlines the minimum number of doses required for each recommended vaccination. For example, the minimum number of doses for a fully vaccinated adult for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is two. For some other vaccines, such as the diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccine, the minimum recommended number of doses is five.
Advantages of Being Fully Vaccinated
The best advantage of being fully vaccinated for all recommended vaccines is the protection it offers against potentially deadly diseases. Vaccines provide immunity against infectious diseases, helping to reduce the spread of harmful germs, infections, and illnesses. Fully vaccinated people are less likely to contract diseases, and if they do, they are often less severely affected than those who have not been fully vaccinated.
Another clear advantage of being fully vaccinated is the fact that it meets the requirements of most public health organizations. In some cases, a fully vaccinated individual may find it easier to travel than a person who is not fully vaccinated.
Ultimately, the advantages of being fully vaccinated far outweigh any negatives. Fully vaccinated individuals are participating in public health efforts to protect entire populations from potentially deadly diseases. That alone is reason enough to get your recommended vaccinations.