Vaccines explained: How they work and what to expect

September 11, 2026
Provided by AAFP partner
CVS Health graphic promoting “On The Beat by CVS,” featuring two pharmacists standing in a pharmacy with the text “CVS pharmacists demystify vaccines.”

Vaccines are an important part of preventive care, yet many patients continue to have questions about how vaccines work, when they should be received, and what to expect during the vaccination process. Family physicians are often a trusted source of information for these conversations and play a critical role in helping patients make informed decisions about immunization.

Vaccines Explained: How They Work and What to Expect is an educational video featuring CVS pharmacists Alexandra Wohlgemuth and Edwin McGee, who address common questions patients and families may have about vaccines. Drawing on their experience supporting patients, they explain how vaccines help prepare the immune system to recognize and respond to certain viruses; why recommended vaccine schedules are important; and what individuals can expect before, during, and after a vaccination appointment.

The resource is designed to support patient education and facilitate conversations between health care professionals and patients. Topics include the role vaccines play in helping protect against preventable diseases, the importance of staying current with recommended immunizations, and practical information that may help reduce uncertainty about the vaccination experience. The video presents information in a clear, accessible format that family physicians may find useful when discussing immunization questions with patients and caregivers.

By providing concise, evidence-based education, this resource can help reinforce vaccine confidence and support informed decision-making. It may also serve as a supplemental tool for patients seeking a better understanding of vaccine fundamentals and the value of routine immunization as part of preventive health care. 

As a leading health solutions company, CVS Health offers multiple channels to access health care locally and nationally. Our strong community presence, tech-forward approach, and unmatched engagement with more than 100 million people enable us to deliver high-quality, personalized, affordable health care.

Disclaimer:
The posting of information and content on this page should not be considered an AAFP endorsement or recommendation of the partner or sponsor organization’s products, services, policies or procedures. The information and opinions expressed are those of partners and paid sponsors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the AAFP. The AAFP is not responsible for the content of third-party websites linked from this page. Any links on this page to third-party websites where goods and services are advertised are not endorsements or recommendations by the AAFP of the third-party sites, goods or services.