MyChart®
Vaccine answers you can trust
Have questions about vaccines?
It’s normal to have concerns. TrueCare providers are here to help you get clear, trusted information for yourself and your family. Have more questions? Schedule an appointment, or bring your questions to your next visit.
Vaccine safety and side effects
Start here for common questions about vaccine safety, reactions and what to share with your provider before getting vaccinated.
Are vaccines safe?
Yes. Vaccines recommended for use go through safety testing and are monitored after they are approved. Your provider can help you understand what is recommended for you or your child.
What side effects should I expect?
Most side effects are mild, such as soreness in the arm, tiredness or a low fever. These usually go away on their own within a few days.
What side effects are normal, and when should I call a doctor?
Mild soreness, swelling, tiredness or fever can be normal. Call your provider if symptoms worry you, last longer than expected or include signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling or hives.
How rare are serious allergic reactions?
Serious allergic reactions are very rare. Tell your provider about any known allergies or past reactions before getting a vaccine.
What should I tell my provider before getting a vaccine?
Tell your provider about allergies, past vaccine reactions, pregnancy, immune system problems, current illness and any medications that affect your immune system.
What if I or my child had a reaction to a vaccine before?
Tell your provider before getting another dose. Some reactions are mild, but a serious allergic reaction may change what vaccines are recommended or how they are given.
Can I get vaccinated if I am sick today?
A mild illness, like a cold, usually does not mean you need to wait. If you have a moderate or serious illness, your provider may recommend delaying the vaccine until you feel better.
How are vaccines tested before they are recommended?
Vaccines are studied for safety and effectiveness before they are recommended. Experts review the evidence before vaccines become part of routine care.
How are vaccines monitored after they are approved?
Vaccine safety continues to be monitored after vaccines are approved. This helps health experts find and review rare safety concerns.
Vaccine schedules and timing
These questions help explain why vaccines are recommended at certain ages and why staying on schedule matters.
Is it safe to get multiple vaccines at once?
Yes. The immune system handles germs every day. Getting vaccines together is safe and helps protect you or your child as early as possible.
Why are vaccines given on a recommended schedule?
The schedule is designed to protect people when they are most at risk. Getting vaccines on time helps build protection before exposure to serious diseases.
Can we delay or space out vaccines?
Delaying vaccines leaves children unprotected longer and does not improve safety. If you are worried, talk with your provider so we can walk through your concerns.
What happens if my child is behind on vaccines?
Your child may be able to get back on track with a catch-up schedule. Your provider can review their records and recommend the next steps.
Are combination vaccines safe?
Yes. Combination vaccines protect against more than one disease with fewer shots. They are studied for safety and effectiveness before they are recommended.
Why do babies need vaccines so early?
Babies are more vulnerable to some serious infections. Vaccines help protect them before they are likely to be exposed.
Does my child need vaccines at every well-child visit?
Not every visit includes vaccines, but well-child visits are a good time to stay on schedule. Your provider can tell you what is due at each visit.
Can vaccines overwhelm the immune system?
No. The immune system responds to many germs every day. Vaccines use a small, controlled amount of information to teach the body how to protect itself.
Are there too many vaccines on the schedule?
The schedule is reviewed by medical experts and designed to protect children at the right time. Talk with your provider about any specific vaccine you are unsure about.
Autism, development and long-term health
These questions deserve clear, respectful answers. We want patients and families to feel informed and supported.
Do vaccines cause autism?
No. Large studies show no link between vaccines and autism.
Do vaccines cause developmental delays?
No. Vaccines have not been shown to cause developmental delays.
Can vaccines cause long-term health problems?
Vaccines are monitored for safety before and after they are recommended. Large studies have not shown that vaccines cause long-term health problems.
Do vaccines cause allergies, asthma, diabetes, autoimmune disease or fertility problems?
Research does not show that vaccines cause these conditions. If you have a specific health concern, your provider can talk through your personal risk.
If autism symptoms appear around the same age as vaccines, how do we know vaccines are not the cause?
Some signs of autism can appear around the same age children receive vaccines. Timing alone does not mean one caused the other, and studies have found no link between vaccines and autism.
Vaccine ingredients can sound unfamiliar. This section explains why ingredients are used and when to talk with your provider about allergies.
What ingredients are in vaccines?
Vaccines include ingredients that help the body build protection, keep the vaccine stable or help it work well. Ingredients vary by vaccine.
Why do some vaccines contain aluminum?
Small amounts of aluminum salts are used in some vaccines to help the body build a stronger immune response. Aluminum has been studied and used in vaccines for many years.
Do vaccines contain mercury or thimerosal?
Most routine childhood vaccines do not contain thimerosal. If you have concerns about a specific vaccine, your provider can review the ingredients with you.
Do vaccines contain fetal cells?
Vaccines do not contain fetal tissue. Some vaccines may be made or tested using lab-grown cell lines, and your provider can explain what that means for specific vaccines.
Do vaccines contain formaldehyde?
Tiny amounts of formaldehyde may be used during production for some vaccines and are reduced during manufacturing. The body also naturally makes formaldehyde in small amounts.
Are vaccine ingredients safe for babies and children?
Yes. Vaccine ingredients are used in carefully measured amounts and are studied for safety.
Can ingredients build up in the body?
Vaccine ingredients are present in small amounts and do not build up in the body the way some online claims suggest. Ask your provider about any ingredient that concerns you.
What if I have an allergy to an ingredient, like eggs, gelatin, yeast or latex?
Tell your provider about any allergy before getting vaccinated. Some allergies may require a different vaccine, extra monitoring or a referral to a specialist.
Why vaccines still matter
Some diseases are less common today because vaccines work. When vaccination rates drop, outbreaks can return.
Are vaccines still necessary if these diseases are rare?
They are rare because vaccines work. When vaccination rates drop, outbreaks can return.
If my child is healthy, do they really need vaccines?
Yes. Healthy children can still get serious infections. Vaccines help protect them before they are exposed.
Is natural immunity better than vaccination?
Getting sick can sometimes create immunity, but it can also cause serious illness or complications. Vaccines are a safer way to build protection.
If vaccines work, why does it matter if other people are vaccinated?
High vaccination rates help reduce the spread of disease. This also helps protect babies, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Can vaccines help protect people around me?
Yes. Staying up to date can help protect your family and community, especially people who cannot get certain vaccines.
Can a vaccine give me the disease it is meant to prevent?
Most vaccines cannot give you the disease they protect against. Some vaccines use weakened live viruses, so your provider can guide you if you are pregnant or immunocompromised.
What is vaccine shedding, and should I worry about it?
Vaccine shedding is when a weakened virus from certain live vaccines leaves the body. It is rare and usually not a concern, but people with weakened immune systems should ask their provider.
Vaccines for children, teens and school
Your child’s vaccine needs change by age. TrueCare can help families understand what is due and what records are needed for school or child care.
Which vaccines does my child need?
It depends on your child’s age and vaccine history. Your provider can review their record and help you understand what is due now and what comes next.
Which vaccines does my teen need?
Teens may need vaccines that protect against illnesses such as meningitis, HPV, flu and other diseases. Your provider can review what is recommended for your teen.
What vaccines are required for school or child care in California?
California requires certain vaccines for child care and school entry. Requirements can vary by age and grade, so bring your child’s vaccine record to your visit.
What records do I need for school?
Schools usually need a written or digital immunization record showing the vaccines your child has received. TrueCare can help you review your child’s record.
What if my child is missing vaccines for school?
Your child may need a catch-up plan. Schedule a visit so your provider can review what is missing and help your child get back on track.
Can my child get vaccines during a regular checkup?
Yes. Many vaccines can be given during a regular well-child visit. Ask your care team what is due.
What if my child is afraid of shots?
That is common. Let our care team know so we can help your child feel more comfortable and explain what to expect.
What if my child was born early or has a health condition?
Some children need special guidance based on their health history. Your provider can help decide what vaccines are recommended and when.
Vaccines for adults
Vaccines are not just for children. Adults may need vaccines based on age, health history, job, travel or past vaccine records.
Do adults need vaccines too?
Yes. Adults need vaccines to stay protected from serious diseases, especially as protection from some childhood vaccines can fade over time.
Which vaccines do adults need?
It depends on your age, health history, job, travel plans and vaccine record. Your provider can help you know what is recommended.
How do I know if I am up to date?
Bring your vaccine record to your visit if you have it. If you do not, your provider can help review your history and decide what you may need.
What vaccines do older adults need?
Older adults may need vaccines that help protect against illnesses such as flu, shingles, pneumonia, RSV and other infections. Your provider can review what is right for you.
Do I need flu, COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia, RSV, hepatitis B or Tdap vaccines?
Many adults may be recommended to get one or more of these vaccines. Recommendations depend on age, health history and other factors, so ask your provider.
What if I have a chronic condition like diabetes, asthma, heart disease or kidney disease?
Some health conditions increase the risk of serious illness from infections. Your provider can help you understand which vaccines are recommended for your condition.
What if I am immunocompromised?
Some vaccines may be especially important, while others may not be recommended. Talk with your provider before getting vaccinated.
What if I got vaccines in another country?
Bring any records you have. Your provider can review them and help decide whether you need any vaccines or additional doses.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and family planning
Some vaccines help protect both pregnant patients and babies. Others may need to be given before or after pregnancy.
Are vaccines safe during pregnancy?
Some vaccines are recommended during pregnancy, while others should be given before or after pregnancy. Talk with your provider about what is right for you.
Which vaccines are recommended during pregnancy?
Recommendations can depend on your health history, timing and current guidance. Your provider can review vaccines such as Tdap, flu and RSV with you and provide current guidance on COVID-19.
Are vaccines safe while breastfeeding?
Most routine vaccines do not affect the safety of breastfeeding. Ask your provider if you have questions about a specific vaccine.
Can vaccines affect fertility?
Research does not show that vaccines cause fertility problems. If you are planning a pregnancy, your provider can help you prepare.
Should family members get vaccinated before being around a newborn?
Yes. Staying up to date helps protect newborns who are too young for some vaccines.
Vaccine records, appointments and access
Need help finding records or figuring out what is due? TrueCare can help you take the next step.
How do I find my vaccine records?
Start with your health care provider, school records or the California Digital Vaccine Record. TrueCare can also help review records you bring to your visit.
What if I lost my vaccine record?
That happens. Your provider can help look for records and decide whether any vaccines need to be repeated.
What if my record is incomplete?
Your provider can help decide what is missing. In some cases, you may need catch-up vaccines or blood tests, depending on the vaccine and your history.
Can TrueCare help me figure out which vaccines I need?
Yes. Bring any vaccine records you have, and our care team can help review what is recommended.
Do I need an appointment?
Scheduling an appointment helps make sure the right vaccine is available and gives your provider time to answer your questions. Some vaccine services may also be available through community programs. Ask our team about current options near you.
Can I get vaccines if I do not have insurance?
TrueCare serves patients regardless of insurance status. Our team can help you understand coverage, self-pay options and available programs.
Are vaccines covered by Medi-Cal?
Most vaccines are covered by Medi-Cal. If you are not sure what is covered, our team can help you check.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your vaccine record, insurance or Medi-Cal card if you have one, a list of medications, and any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
Can I get more than one vaccine at the same visit?
Yes. Many vaccines can be given at the same visit. Your provider can tell you what is recommended and answer questions before you decide.
Where can I get vaccinated?
TrueCare offers vaccines through many primary care visits and community programs. Ask our team where to go based on your age, vaccine needs and location.
Trusted vaccine information
There is a lot of vaccine information online, and it can be hard to know what to trust. We are here to help you sort through it.
How do I know what vaccine information to trust?
Look for information from medical providers, public health agencies and organizations that explain evidence clearly. Be careful with posts that use fear, blame or miracle claims.
What if I saw something online that made me worried?
Bring it to your provider. We can help you understand what it means, what is known and what applies to your health or your child’s health.
Where can I find trusted vaccine resources?
Start with TrueCare and trusted public health or medical sources, including the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the California Department of Public Health and San Diego County.
Can I talk with a provider before deciding?
Yes. You can ask questions before getting vaccinated. Our goal is to help you feel informed and supported.
What questions should I ask my provider?
Ask what vaccines are recommended, why they are recommended, what side effects to expect, what to do after vaccination and how to stay on schedule.
Still have questions about vaccines? A TrueCare provider can help you understand what is recommended for you or your child.
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