Immunizations in Columbia, MD

When it comes to protecting your immune health, we understand how important it is for you and your family to stay healthy year-round. At UMG Urgent Care, our healthcare team offers a full range of vaccines to help improve your immune system and prevent serious infectious diseases. From flu shots to the COVID-19 vaccine, we make it easy and convenient to stay up to date with your vaccine and immunization schedule. Immunizations are a medical process where your body is given a vaccine to help build resistance to certain diseases. A vaccine contains either a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, which stimulates your immune system to produce white blood cells and antibodies. These antibodies will recognize and fight off the actual illness if you're exposed in the future. Book a consultation with our team to develop a vaccine and immunization schedule, which will ensure that your immune health stays strong and ready to defend against common illnesses.

To understand how vaccines work, it's essential to know a little about how your immune system functions. When your body encounters germs, your immune system produces antibodies to fight them off. The problem is that sometimes, it can take too long for your body to naturally develop these antibodies, and you can become sick before your immune system responds effectively. Immunization vaccines solve this problem by giving your body a "preview" of the germ. When you receive a vaccine, your body is exposed to a controlled amount of the virus or bacteria, just enough for your immune system to learn how to produce antibodies. If you're exposed to the actual disease later, your body will recognize it and can fight it off much faster, preventing you from getting sick. For example, the best time to get a flu shot is typically before flu season begins, which helps protect you from the flu virus all winter long. Staying current with the COVID-19 vaccine can also help improve your immune system and reduce the severity of illness if you're exposed to the virus. Following the vaccine schedule for children, especially vaccines kids need, is essential for preventing infectious diseases in schools and other group settings.

Am I A Candidate For Immunizations?

Nearly everyone can benefit from immunizations, but specific vaccines may vary depending on your age, health status, lifestyle, and travel plans. At UMG Urgent Care, our healthcare professionals can help you decide which vaccines you or your family need. Adults, children, seniors, and even those with certain medical conditions can receive tailored vaccine recommendations to ensure optimal protection. Our team is dedicated to keeping you healthy and protected no matter age or stage of life.

Vaccines provide a wide range of benefits, not just for those who receive them but also for the larger community. By boosting your immune health, immunizations help reduce your risk of contracting various diseases and protect others around you. Staying current with your vaccine and immunization schedule at UMG Urgent Care helps maintain your health and contributes to public health. Some of the primary benefits of getting vaccinated include:

  • Strengthens your immune system, helping to protect you from serious illnesses, like the flu, measles, and COVID-19
  • Reduces the risk of complications from preventable diseases, lowering the chances of severe illness or hospitalization
  • Vaccines for kids provide essential protection, especially in group settings like schools, where infections can spread quickly
  • Helps prevent disease outbreaks by reducing the overall transmission of illnesses within the community
  • Supports herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations like those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, or individuals who may not be able to get vaccinated due to medical reasons
  • Ensures that vaccines are safe and effective, offering peace of mind and convenience to avoid unnecessary medical visits
  • Makes it easier to protect yourself with timely options, such as flu shots near Columbia, MD

Omg we had the best experience at UMG Urgent Care! Stephanie and her team got us in ASAP, and I was honestly impressed with HOW nice and clean it was. I loved how inviting the space was, clearly all brand new and updated, it just felt so refreshing! The check in and wait time was super fast & easy, and we were seen right away! And I was able to call back with any questions I had.

C.D. Google

I've used UMG Urgent Care twice now - once for a Sports/School Physical for my children and once for a pre-op clearance visit. The entire process was so smooth and seamless.I was seen on time and I was able to get an appointment fairly quickly.The staff was always welcoming and pleasant - something that is super rare for an Urgent Care or medical office in general.Stephanie is absolutely amazing. She is knowledgeable, efficient and has great bedside manner.I'll be using UMG for all our primary care needs moving forward. I'd highly recommend skipping the ER or the big chains like Patient First unless you want to wait hours to be treated inhumanely.I wish all medical offices could be this organized and professional!

N.H. Google

We had an excellent experience at this Urgent Care - the front desk person and the doctor we saw were both so kind and accommodating, and took the time to explain important information. We were able to get a last minute appointment, and once we arrived, we were taken back quickly. Our entire experience was 30 minutes, in and out. It was wonderful and we will absolutely be back!!

T.F. Google

Excellent customer service and care! Patient, understanding and clear communicator! Thank you Stephanie!

D.C. Google

My telehealth visit went great! The process of setting up an appointment was simple, and I easily found a day and time that worked for me. The provider was very attentive to my symptoms and made sure my medication was promptly sent to the pharmacy. I really appreciated how responsive and efficient the whole experience was.

S.C. Google

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What To Expect After Immunizations

After receiving a vaccination, most people experience minimal side effects, if any. Common side effects include mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue, which typically resolve within a day or two. These reactions are normal and indicate that your body is building immunity. It may take a week or so for your immune system to fully respond and build the necessary antibodies. If you experience any unusual or prolonged symptoms, our healthcare team at UMG Urgent Care is here to help and provide guidance.

Are vaccines safe during pregnancy?

Certain vaccines, such as the flu shot, are safe and recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and baby. These vaccines help prevent serious diseases that could harm newborns, who are too young to receive immunizations. Always consult with our team at UMG Urgent Care to determine the safest vaccine options during pregnancy.

Can I get multiple vaccines at the same time?

Yes, receiving multiple vaccines at once is generally safe and is often part of routine immunization schedules. The immune system can handle more than one vaccine, and doing so can save time and reduce the number of clinic visits. Healthcare providers ensure that vaccine combinations are safe and effective for each individual.

How do I know which vaccines I need for travel?

The vaccines you need for travel depend on your destination, as some regions require protection against specific diseases. Common travel vaccines include those for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Consult our healthcare providers in Columbia, MD, well in advance of your trip to ensure you’re fully protected before traveling.

It's never too early or too late to start thinking about your health. Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying up to date with your immunizations. Whether you need a flu shot, COVID-19 vaccine, or other immunization vaccines, UMG Urgent Care is here to guide you. With our caring team and flexible appointment times, you can get the care you need when it works best for you. Reach out to our team in Columbia, MD to improve your immune health, and schedule your vaccines today.

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