Vaccines for Common Illnesses
As we get older, our immune system weakens and we become more susceptible to illnesses that can be prevented through vaccination. Here are some of the most common Preventive Vaccines and the diseases they protect against:
Influenza Vaccine
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. The flu Preventive Vaccines protects against the main flu virus strains that are predicted to circulate each flu season. It is recommended for all adults over the age of 50. Adults with certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes, asthma or heart disease are also encouraged to receive an annual flu shot. Getting vaccinated is the best way for adults to reduce their risk of flu illness, doctor's visits, lost time from work and hospitalizations related to the flu.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Vaccine
Tetanus causes painful muscle spasms and is dangerous for adults if vaccination is delayed or missed. Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that can cause breathing problems. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is highly contagious and causes violent coughing fits that can interfere with breathing. The Tdap vaccine protects against all three of these diseases. It is recommended for adults who have not previously received a dose of Tdap to replace one dose of the routine Td booster.
Zoster Vaccine
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in nerve tissue for decades and reactivate later in life as shingles. The shingles vaccine helps prevent shingles and its complications in older adults. It is recommended for all adults over the age of 50.
Pneumococcal Vaccines
Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria causes pneumococcal disease, which can lead to dangerous infections like pneumonia, bacteremia and meningitis. There are two different pneumococcal vaccines available for adults - PPSV23 and PCV13. PPSV23 protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria and is recommended for all adults 65 and older as well as younger adults with certain medical conditions. PCV13 protects against additional types of pneumococcal disease and is recommended for adults 65 and older who have not previously received PPSV23.
Checking Your Vaccination History
It can be challenging for adults to keep track of all recommended vaccines over the course of a lifetime. The best way to stay up to date is to check your vaccination history with your doctor. They can review which vaccines you may need based on your age, health conditions and previous immunization records. Making adult vaccinations a priority helps provide continued protection against serious diseases as your immunity naturally declines with age. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent illness, hospitalization and even death from dangerous infections.
Vaccinations for High Risk Groups
In addition to routine adult vaccinations, certain groups of people face higher risks from vaccine-preventable diseases due to their age or medical conditions. Here are some additional vaccines recommended for adults in high risk categories:
Hepatitis A and B Vaccines
Hepatitis A and B are contagious liver infections caused by different viruses. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for certain adult age groups, food handlers and international travelers while the hepatitis B vaccine is typically given as a series of shots for infants and children. Adults with diabetes or in close contact with an infected person are also encouraged to become vaccinated.
Human Papillomavirus Preventive Vaccines
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection and certain strains can lead to cancers affecting the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus and back of throat/tonsil area over time. The HPV vaccine is recommended for boys and girls ages 11-12, with catch-up vaccination through age 26 for those who did not complete the series as preteens/teens. Adults through age 26 with compromised immune systems due to HIV/AIDS or other issues are also advised to get the vaccine.
Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine
Meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria is potentially fatal. The meningococcal conjugate vaccine known as MenACWY protects against four serogroups that cause the majority of meningococcal disease in the United States. It is recommended for certain high-risk groups like those with HIV/AIDS, complement component deficiency, or who work in microbiology labs. Teenagers and college freshmen living in dorms are also routinely vaccinated.
In discussing your risks and lifestyle with your doctor allows them to create a personalized vaccination plan based on your age, general health and specific risk factors. For example, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine may be advised for internationally traveling adults born after 1956. Occupational vaccines like those protecting against tetanus, hepatitis, influenza or meningococcal are suggested depending on your job duties. Maintaining strong community immunity through vaccination is key to disease prevention as we age.
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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