Cherokee, NC – Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent disease and reduce serious health complications to protect the members of our community. Backed by decades of research and proven results, vaccines have been shown to prevent illnesses, hospitalizations, and even death. They play a critical role as one of the safest and most effective public health tools to save millions of lives each year.
While immunizations are often associated with early childhood, vaccination is important throughout every stage of our life from infancy through adulthood. Immunization strengthens the body’s natural defenses and protects everyone throughout their lives.
How to Vaccines Protect Us?
Vaccines help our immune system fight against harmful viruses and bacteria more effectively. They work by safely preparing the body to recognize harmful viruses and bacteria without causing the illness itself.
After vaccination, the body develops a memory of the germs. If exposed in the future, the immune system can quickly respond to fight off the illness
Prevention is a Shared Responsibility
Taking care of our health not only protects ourselves but also protects our family and community. Keeping vaccinations current helps protect individuals from infectious diseases while strengthening the health and safety of our community.
When more people are vaccinated, it limits the spread of infectious diseases to protect those who are most susceptible to infection and its complications. They provided protection for vulnerable populations, such as infants, elders, and those with underlying medical conditions. This type of protection is known as herd immunity and helps stop the likelihood of outbreaks.
Call to Action for the EBCI Community
Every member of the EBCI community is encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about staying up to date with their recommended vaccinations. If you are unsure which immunizations you or your family members require, reach out to the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) or local health clinic for guidance.
Make vaccination part of your routine health care:
· Schedule wellness visits for yourself and your family
· Review and update immunization records
· Ask questions and get informed about recommended vaccines
Tsalagi Public Health will offer Influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations through convenient drive-through clinics this flu-season. Appointments will also be available at their office location at 73 Kaiser Road in Cherokee during normal office hours. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of the drive-through clinics to protect themselves, their families, and the broader community from illnesses that are preventable by vaccines.
Free public health vending machines are available throughout the community and stocked with COVID-19 and Flu A & B test kits, hand sanitizer, and face masks to promote wellness and disease prevention.
Together we can protect our community, honor our responsibility to mother, and ensure a healthier future fore generations to come.
The mission of EBCI Public Health & Human Services is “HONORING our Cherokee community by PROVIDING excellent care, PROMOTING health, and SERVING in a culturally respectful way.” Visit our website at https://phhs.ebci-nsn.gov, and follow EBCI PHHS on Facebook (EBCI Public Health & Human Services Division), Instagram (@ebciphhs), and X (@ebciphhs).
