As an individual, you should not develop a great fear of microbes. Remember that most microbes are beneficial; and remember to practice activities that keep your body strong and able to defend itself against microbes. Individuals are relatively safe from diseases because the general population is protected by vaccinations. We estimate that if 70% of a population is vaccinated, the non-vaccinated individual is unlikely to get the disease. This is called the principle of herd immunity. The vaccination series required to be a student at UMC or NWTC-EGF include the anti-viral MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and polio and the antibacterial DPT (diptheria, pertussis or whooping cough, tetanus). The DPT is give in a three part series before beginning elementary school. Older adults may receive DT, but vaccination against pertussis is not recommended. Some students may need the HbV (hepatitis B virus) vaccination, and other students may decide to have the Hib (Haemophilus influenza) vaccination. Some jobs (employment sites) have greater risks of contracting pathogenic microbes so protect yourself accordingly.

In addition to vaccinations, we can protect ourselves against disease by knowing and following the suggestions of health organizations like the WHO (World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland), CDC (Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia), and ICC (local Infection Control Committee). These organizations publish regular reports and summaries of epidemics and other information related to your health (see Internet sites available from WHO and CDC).