Many people think of vaccines as something only children need as they grow. Although
children do need vaccines, adults also do. Vaccines given in childhood can reduce their
effectiveness with age. Adults may also need further vaccines due to specific health
issues or as a means of prevention. Vaccines can help you protect yourself and those
around you. Learning about the top seven adult vaccines can help you make wise
decisions for your health.
Influenza
The flu vaccine is recommended for adults and children annually. The flu can be a
serious illness, especially in the elderly, small children, and those with compromised
immune systems. Because the flu virus changes yearly, you need a yearly vaccine to
protect yourself. This vaccine provides adequate protection against the flu virus. Even
healthy people benefit because it helps prevent them from passing on a serious illness
to weaker individuals. Ask your local GP about this shot.
Tdap Booster
Tdap stands for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Although most people receive this
vaccine in childhood, it can become less protective. Getting this booster shot every ten
years to continue protection would be best. While tetanus can enter the body through an open wound, you can catch diphtheria and pertussis through airborne respiratory
droplets.
Shingles
Shingles causes a painful rash along a nerve branch, usually on the chest or side of the
rib cage. After recovering from chicken pox, the virus can lay dormant for years and
return as shingles. This vaccine is recommended for people over 50.
Pneumococcal
Pneumococcal infections can lead to pneumonia, blood infections, and meningitis.
Those over the age of 65 are more prone to developing serious illnesses from this
infection. There are presently two pneumococcal vaccines: PCV13 and PPSV23. These
are recommended for all seniors over 65 and are given to some young people.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that impacts the liver and can cause severe damage.
People can develop chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer from hepatitis B.
This shot is recommended for people at risk for exposure, including people with chronic
liver and kidney disease. You will receive a series of three immunizations given over
several months.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV is a common sexually transmitted disease that can impact the throat and lead to
cervical, throat, and anal cancers. The HPV vaccine is recommended for adolescents
and adults up to age 45.
MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Most children receive the MMR vaccine in childhood, but adults may need a booster
dose. Those born after 1957 without receiving two MMR doses must be revaccinated.
Stay Vaccinated to Protect Your Health and Others
Vaccinations save lives, protect health, and prevent people from passing viruses and
dangers to others. Although you may have received all recommended vaccines as a
child, that does not mean your protection is secure for life. Some vaccines require a
boost later in life to continue to offer protection.
Talking to your healthcare provider about any vaccines you may need in adulthood is
essential. Your doctor will base your vaccine schedule on your health, lifestyle, and age.
Being proactive about your vaccine schedule will help protect yourself against
dangerous viruses and illnesses that can make you seriously ill and cause damage to
your body. Learn more today to ensure your health.
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