August is National Immunization Month. I thought I would review IMMUNOLOGY 101.

Ever wonder what actually happens inside your body after you get a vaccine? 💉

Think of your immune system as your body’s security team. Its job is to recognize things that don’t belong—such as bacteria and viruses—and respond to them. 
What does a vaccine do?

A vaccine gives your immune system a safe preview of a specific germ or part of it.

It essentially says: “Here’s what the enemy looks like. Learn it now, so you’re ready if you encounter it later.”

Your immune system responds by making antibodies and immune memory cells. If the real germ appears later, your immune system can recognize it and respond much faster.

When you already have chronic lung disease, avoiding additional respiratory infections can be particularly important.

Vaccines don’t prevent every respiratory infection but they can help protect against other vaccine-preventable infections that may cause serious respiratory illness or complications.

Your age, health conditions, previous vaccinations and medications can all affect which vaccines you need and when. 

Vaccination isn’t about making your immune system “stronger.” It’s about training your immune system to recognize a specific threat before you encounter the real thing.

And immunity isn’t always perfect. You can sometimes still become infected after vaccination—but vaccination can reduce the risk of serious illness.

Please ask your healthcare team to review your vaccination history and discuss which vaccines are appropriate for you.

Knowledge is part of your BNTM lung-health toolkit. 🫁💙 Do you have plans for your next vaccination?