Vaccination: Understanding,
Protecting, Acting for Your Health

Principles and Benefits of Vaccination

How Does a Vaccine Work?

A vaccine introduces harmless agents into the body (inactivated or weakened viruses or bacteria, or fragments thereof). These agents stimulate the immune system, which produces specific antibodies. This way, if the body encounters the actual infectious agent, it can defend itself effectively.

Why Get Vaccinated?

• Individual Protection: Reduces the risks of developing severe diseases or complications.
• Collective Protection: Limits the spread of diseases through herd immunity, especially for vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated (infants, immunocompromised individuals, etc.).
• Disease Eradication: Global vaccination campaigns have eliminated diseases like smallpox and drastically reduced others, such as polio.

The Vaccination Schedule: A Key Tool

The vaccination schedule specifies the vaccines to be administered at different ages for optimal protection. In France, it is regularly updated to reflect scientific advances and epidemiological changes. It includes:

• Mandatory vaccinations for children (e.g., against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis).
• Recommendations for adults, such as boosters every 10 years for certain diseases (tetanus, whooping cough).
• Specific vaccines for at-risk populations, such as those against pneumococcal infections or hepatitis B.

Your pharmacist or doctor can advise you on the necessary vaccines based on your age, health condition, and travel plans.
2024-2025 Vaccination Schedule

Flu and Covid-19 Vaccination: Current Priorities

Seasonal Flu

Each year, the flu causes thousands of severe complications, particularly among the elderly or those with fragile health. The flu vaccine is updated annually to match circulating strains. It is highly recommended for:

• Individuals aged 55 and over.
• People with chronic illnesses (diabetes, asthma, heart diseases, etc.).
• Pregnant women.
• Healthcare professionals and family caregivers.

Covid-19 Vaccination

Since its emergence, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has highlighted the importance of vaccination to reduce severe cases and slow transmission. The target groups for booster doses are mainly the same as for the flu vaccine.

Pharmacy Vaccination: Accessible and Convenient

In recent years, pharmacy vaccination services have expanded, simplifying access to this essential prevention tool. Today, your pharmacist can:

• Administer certain vaccines: such as those for flu or Covid-19, for adults and adolescents (subject to local regulations).
• Advise on the vaccination schedule and identify vaccines that need updating.
• Prescribe certain vaccines, a measure introduced to facilitate healthcare processes.

This proximity-based approach enables easier follow-up and increased awareness of vaccination importance. Don’t hesitate to consult your pharmacist for any questions or to plan your next vaccination.

Schedule Your Appointment at Pharmacity

Conclusion

Vaccination is a cornerstone of public and individual health. By following the vaccination schedule, protecting against seasonal illnesses like the flu, and utilizing pharmacy vaccination services, you contribute to safeguarding your health and that of those around you. For more information or to receive your vaccines, consult your pharmacist: they are here to support you in your healthcare journey.