Most people think of vaccines as something for kids or something you only get when there’s an outbreak. But the truth is, vaccines are a powerful part of adult preventive care, and your health benefits likely make them easy and free to access.
How Vaccines Work with Your Body
Vaccines don’t fight illness directly. Instead, they train your immune system to recognize and respond faster to viruses and bacteria. It’s like giving your body a cheat sheet before a test. This helps you avoid getting sick or reduces the overall severity of your illness.
What Benefits May Already Cover
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, many employer-sponsored health plans fully cover routine vaccines and boosters under preventive care when given in-network. That includes:
- COVID-19
- Influenza
- HPV
- Pneumonia
- Shingles
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Check your health portal or talk to HR to confirm what’s covered – chances are, you won’t have to pay a dime.
Clearing Up the Myths
Myth: “If I’m healthy, I don’t need vaccines.”
Truth: Even healthy people can get seriously ill or pass diseases to more vulnerable people. Vaccines protect both you and those around you.
Myth: “Vaccines make you sick.”
Truth: Mild side effects like soreness or fatigue are normal signs your body is building protection, not that you’re sick.
Take Charge of Your Preventive Care
Your benefits are there to support your health, not just when you’re sick, but to help keep you well in the first place. Many providers now offer vaccines at pharmacies, urgent care, and even on-site at work. It’s one of the easiest steps you can take to protect your health and reduce future healthcare costs.
Use your benefits. Protect your body. Prevent what you can.
Sources:
CDC
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
HRSA
