A Self-Advocate’s Guide To Vaccines

Last Revised: April 2025

IHPP guides are for educational purposes only. The illustrations and information about anatomy are for learning about the human body, health conditions, and preparing for appointments. These guides should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problems. These guides are not a replacement for seeing a licensed medical professional. Please talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about your health.

Transcript:

A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Vaccines

Created by the Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council

This guide explains what vaccines are, how they work, and which ones you may need as an adult.

What are Vaccines?

  • Vaccines help your body learn to fight harmful germs.

  • They use a weak or “dead” version of a germ to teach your immune system.

  • Vaccines can prevent you from getting sick or help you get less sick.

  • Some vaccines require more than one dose or boosters.

  • You might feel tired, sore, or hot/cold after a shot.

How Do Vaccines Work?

  • Vaccines are shots that help you stay healthier.

  • Your immune system makes antibodies to fight off germs.

  • Weak germs in vaccines help your body practice before it meets the real virus.

What Vaccines Should I Get as an Adult?

Vaccines you may need regularly:

  • COVID-19 – updated yearly

  • Flu (Influenza) – updated yearly

  • Tetanus (Tdap or Td) – every 10 years

Vaccines for adults over 50 or immunocompromised:

Talk to your provider about:

  • RSV

  • Pneumococcal (Pneumonia)

  • Shingles

Vaccines usually given in childhood/teens (check if you had them):

  • MMR

  • Varicella

  • HPV

  • Hepatitis A & B

  • Meningococcal

  • DTaP

Where Do I Get a Vaccine?

  • Your healthcare provider’s office

  • A pharmacy (like CVS or Walgreens)

  • A vaccine clinic

Call the Disability Information and Access Line: 888-677-1199 or visit https://DIAL.ACL.gov for help.

How to Prepare for a Vaccine Appointment

  • Wear a short-sleeve shirt

  • Bring something to help you relax

  • You might need to wait 15 minutes after the shot

  • Ask for a countdown before the shot

Your Rights

  • Ask about side effects and ingredients

  • Say yes or no to any vaccine

  • You have the right to informed consent

What is The Inclusive Healthcare Partnership Project (IHPP)?

IHPP creates easy-to-understand health information and helps providers better communicate with neurodiverse patients.

Goals:

  1. Make health info accessible

  2. Train providers to work well with people with disabilities

Last revised: January 2025
Learn more: http://www.ihppvt.org

Supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Award: $95,319.

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