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Health & Nutrition:
Organizing Your Health Care

Can I be sure my family has had all the immunizations and screening tests that they need?

Immunization is a method of preventing communicable diseases by getting a vaccine before you are exposed to the bacteria or virus. Communicable diseases can be passed from one person to another. Some immunizations are given only two or three times to babies or children before they begin school. Others need to be renewed with booster shots every few years throughout life. It can be tricky trying to keep up with when an adult needs a booster or whether a child is up to date on immunizations. You do not need to be an expert on immunizations, but you will need an up-to-date accurate record of each family member's immunications, and you do need to ask the doctor or nurse to review the list at least once each year. Babies under age 2 will need about 6 visits to the doctor or clinic for their shots.

Find out what diseases and immunizations you have had in the past. At least once each year for teens and adults (and more often for infants and toddlers) ask your doctor or nurse if you need an immunization for the the following diseases. Every person doesn't need all of the listed immunizations, but it will help to cover all the possibilities if you ask.

Routine Screening Tests and Self Exams
Some routine medical screening tests and exams are very useful in detecting serious illness early when it can best be treated. In addition, there are some very important self-exams and discussions that can save your life. A yearly physical exam may not protect your health unless it includes the right tests for you. Males and females of all ages should have some regular screeing exams and tests. Some organization will help you get all the important ones! Your questions will also help your health provider focus on any individual risks that you or your family may have. Use the following Medical Screening Test checklist to guide your discussions:

MO863 Men Under 20
MO865 Men 20-40
MO848 Men Over 40
MO864 Women Under 20
MO866 Women Over 40