Vaccines Medical Reference

Statistics show that states where exemptions are easy to get have more unvaccinated kids than states that make the process harder.

Despite the similar names, chickenpox and smallpox are very different diseases. Learn how to tell them apart.

Find out the differences between active and passive immunity, pros and cons of each, examples, and more.

Measles is a dangerous, contagious disease with no treatment or cure. What it does have, though, is a low-cost vaccine that’s 97% effective in preventing the virus.

Mumps is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the salivary glands. Find out what causes it, who’s likely to get it, and what the treatment involves.

Mumps is a viral infection that mainly affects the salivary glands. Learn the symptoms of this once-common condition.

WebMD's guide to the meningococcal vaccine, who needs it, when it is given, and possible side effects.

Learn more from WebMD about the seasonal flu shot and nasal spray, including when to get them and possible side effects.

Learn more from WebMD about the rotavirus vaccine, which greatly reduces sickness with the rotavirus, especially in children.

WebMD explains the importance of the pneumococcal vaccine for adults, children, and anyone with a chronic illness - along with its side effects.

WebMD explains the Hib vaccine, which protects against bacterial meningitis.

WebMD provides information about the hepatitis A and B vaccinations, including a vaccine schedule, immunization side effects, and preventing the hepatitis viruses.

The MMR vaccine is very important for children and some adults who have not yet been exposed or vaccinated. WebMD explains who should get the vaccine and when.

WebMD explains the varicella, or chickenpox, vaccine -- why it's important, who should get it, the vaccine schedule, and possible side effects.

WebMD explains why the polio vaccine (IPV) is important, who should get it and when, and possible risks and side effects.

WebMD explains the DTap and Tdap vaccines -- why they're given, who should get them, side effects, and other important information about these immunizations.

Get answers to questions about DTaP and Tdap, the vaccines that prevent whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus.

WebMD provides answers to common questions about children's vaccines, including when they should be given and possible side effects.

Are you at risk for shingles? WebMD explains when and why you should get the shingles vaccine.

The nasal flu vaccine sounds like a safe bet for anyone who’s scared of needles, but it’s not for everyone. Find out if it could work for you.

Meningitis vaccines can protect against most types of meningococcal disease. Should you get a vaccine for your child or teen? Here is information parents should know.

Meningitis can be a very serious illness. The experts at WebMD answer basic questions about the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of the disease.

There's a lot you can do to help prevent meningitis in your teenager before he goes to camp or college. WebMD offers tips for avoiding this serious illness.

Think you don't need immunization against infectious diseases? Think again. Learn why we -- and our children -- still need regular vaccinations.

WebMD explains how to spot symptoms of meningitis, a disease that can be fatal.

From symptoms to treatment to prevention, get the basics on tetanus from the experts at WebMD.

From symptoms to treatment to prevention, get the basics on tetanus from the experts at WebMD.

From symptoms to treatment to prevention, get the basics on tetanus from the experts at WebMD.

From symptoms to treatment to prevention, get the basics on tetanus from the experts at WebMD.

Don't risk letting your child get chickenpox and learn about the best way to prevent your family from contracting the virus.