Vaccination has become a widely discussed health topic—but many people still have questions about how vaccines work, why they’re recommended, and what to expect after receiving one. As a trusted compounding pharmacy, Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy believes in helping patients make informed, confident decisions about their health.

Here’s a clear, evidence-based guide to the benefits of vaccination.

How Do Vaccines Work?

Vaccines are designed to prevent illness, not treat it. They work by training your immune system to recognise and fight off harmful germs - before you ever get sick.

Vaccines contain a small, safe component of a virus or bacteria - either weakened or inactivated - that cannot cause the disease. 

Instead, it stimulates your immune system to:

1. Recognise the invading microbe

2. Produce protective antibodies

3. Remember how to respond if exposed again in the future

This means your immune system will react faster and more effectively if you encounter the real virus or bacteria—often stopping the infection before symptoms begin.

Why Should You Get Vaccinated?

There are two main reasons to get vaccinated:

1. To protect yourself from serious illness or complications

2. To protect others—especially those who can’t be vaccinated

Vaccines reduce your risk of contracting or spreading vaccine-preventable diseases such as:

• Measles

• Meningitis

• Tetanus

• Polio

• Pneumonia

Even if some of these diseases seem rare in Australia, they haven’t been eradicated globally. International travel and exposure to unvaccinated communities can lead to outbreaks. Vaccination remains the most effective line of defence.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), childhood vaccines alone prevent over 4 million deaths every year. That’s a powerful reason to stay up to date with your immunisations.

Protecting the most vulnerable

Some people can’t be vaccinated due to medical reasons - such as compromised immune systems, certain allergies, or young age. These individuals rely on a concept known as herd immunity.

When enough people in a community are vaccinated, it reduces the spread of disease, offering indirect protection to those who are most vulnerable. By choosing to get vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself - you’re protecting your community.

Are Vaccines Safe? What About Side Effects?

All vaccines used in Australia are approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which ensures they meet rigorous safety, quality, and efficacy standards.

Common side effects are typically mild and may include:

• Low-grade fever

• Mild fatigue

• Redness or swelling at the injection site

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days. Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare, and Australia has robust systems in place - such as the TGA’s Adverse Event Monitoring System - to track and respond to vaccine safety concerns.

If you experience any unexpected or prolonged symptoms after a vaccination, speak with a pharmacist or healthcare provider for advice and reporting support.

How Long Do Vaccines Last?

Most vaccines provide long-lasting protection - from several years to a lifetime - depending on the type of vaccine and your individual health profile. 

Some may require:

• One-time doses for lifetime protection

• Booster doses at specific intervals (e.g., every 10 years or annually, depending on the vaccine)

• Seasonal vaccinations for illnesses like the flu

At Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy, our pharmacists can help you understand your vaccine history and let you know if you're due for a booster.

How Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy Can Support Your Vaccination Journey

At Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you feel confident about your health choices. 

Our pharmacists can:

• Provide trusted information about vaccination

• Explain what to expect before and after immunisation

• Assist with managing side effects and medication interactions

• Refer you to local health providers or clinics offering approved vaccines

• Support reporting of adverse events to the TGA when necessary

While we do not administer vaccines onsite, our pharmacists are trained to support your immunisation journey and ensure you’re accessing the care you need.

Visit Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy for Expert Health Advice

Whether you have questions about your vaccination history, are managing medications alongside vaccines, or just want evidence-based information, our pharmacy team is here to help.

Call us at 02 9389 3168 or visit us in-store.