Protection That Sticks: Why Immunizations Belong on Your Resolution List

If keeping your family healthy is at the top of your list of resolutions, check that everyone is current on their vaccines – both adults and children. Immunizations matter because they help your body learn how to fight serious diseases before you’re exposed to them, reducing your risk of getting sick or having severe complications. They also protect the people around you—especially infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems—by helping stop the spread of illness.

If that sounds like a big deal - it is! Take action now to ensure you, and those you care about, are immunized!

For adults: Review your vaccination record with your primary care provider to determine what immunizations are needed. Routine vaccines include:

• Flu (It's not too late to get your flu shot now - flu season typically runs through March!)
• COVID-19
• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Td/Tdap)

Depending on your age and health status, it might be time for other vaccines including:

• Hepatitis B
• Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
• Shingles
• Pneumonia
• HPV
• RSV

Where to get vaccines: Most vaccines are available at your primary care or pediatrician’s office. Many pharmacies, including UK King’s Daughters Family Pharmacy, provide vaccinations. Most insurance plans cover the cost of immunizations at 100%.

Unsure about your vaccination history? In most cases, your vaccination history is included in your medical record, which you can view through your MyChart account. Your primary care provider should also have access to these records.

If you live in Kentucky or West Virginia, you may be able to access your vaccination records online:

• Kentucky – kyirpublicportal.ky.gov
• West Virginia – myirmobile.com

Ohio residents may submit a request to the Ohio Department of Health. Go to ODH.Ohio.gov and search for Impact SIIS or immunization records for more information.

For children: Keeping current with well-child exams is the best way to ensure your child’s vaccinations are current. Most insurance plans cover childhood immunizations at 100% and many provide financial incentives to complete vaccinations. Medicaid requires infant immunizations to be administered in a pediatrician’s office.

Check here for a complete list of childhood immunizations. And if you need a pediatrician or primary care provider, call UK King’s Daughters Care 24/7 line at (606) 408-8999.