Don’t Wait. Vaccinate.
The reduction in vaccine preventable diseases is one of the 10 most important public health achievements in the last 100 years.
Immunizations play a vital role in protecting our communities against deadly diseases. It’s important to understand, without continued immunity, many of these life-threatening diseases could likely re-appear, potentially turning into an epidemic.
Not only are immunizations important for the health of yourself, your family and your community, it’s essential to protect those with weaker immune systems such as babies, older adults, and those with serious illnesses who can’t be vaccinated. These populations are more vulnerable to diseases that can cause further complications and even death.
Vaccines for Children
The federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program offers vaccines at no cost for children under the age of 19 who meet at least one of the following criteria:
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The child is eligible for Medicaid;
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The child has no health insurance coverage;
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The child is American Indian (as defined by the Indian Health Care Improvement Act); or
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The child has insurance, but it doesn't cover vaccinations.
Children whose health insurance covers the cost of immunizations aren’t eligible for VFC vaccine, even if coverage isn’t available because a deductible hasn’t been met.
Children under 19 who have no insurance may also be eligible for low- or no-cost insurance through the Healthy Montana Kids Program. For more information, call toll-free 1-877-543-7669 or visit www.hmk.mt.gov.
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to receive any vaccination.
Paying for Immunizations
All Health Insurance Marketplace plans and most other private insurance plans must cover common vaccines without charging a copayment or coinsurance when vaccinations are given by an in-network provider. This is true even for patients who have not met a yearly deductible. Doses, recommended ages, and recommended populations for these vaccines vary. Learn more about paying for immunizations on the CDC website.
Why Do I Need Vaccines?
Vaccines protect you from serious and life-threatening diseases. As you get older, some of the vaccinations you got as a child begin to wear off, so you need a booster vaccine to keep you protected. Vaccines not only protect you, but also your friends and family! Talk to your parents and doctor to make sure your immunization record is up-to-date.
What Vaccines Do I Need?
Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Meningococcal conjugate (MCV4) vaccine to protect against meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is often severe and include infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream infections (bacteremia or septicemia)
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to protect against HPV infection and cancers caused by HPV. HPV infection can cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer in girls and penile cancer in boys. HPV can also cause anal cancer, throat cancer and genital warts in both boys and girls.
Influenza "flu" vaccine each year to protect against seasonal influenza.
Tips for After Getting Shots:
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Stay seated for 15 minutes.
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Put a cool, wet cloth on your arm where the shot was given.
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Your arm may feel a little sore/tender, red, or swollen which is normal.
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If pain in your arm persists, take a non-aspirin pain reliever.