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Adult Immunization: Are You Up to Date on Your Recommended Vaccines?
Do you think vaccines are just for kids? Think again. Vaccines are just as necessary for adults as they are for children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults adhere to a vaccination schedule throughout their lives to stay protected against serious illnesses.
We at Prime Choice Family Clinic & Urgent Care want all our patients to understand the importance of being up to date on their vaccines. Here's your ultimate guide to adult vaccinations, so you can make the best decisions for your health.
Why are adult immunizations necessary?
Age affects virtually every aspect of your body from the inside out, including your immune system. Over time, your immune system weakens, making you more vulnerable to certain illnesses. Vaccines help to protect you against these illnesses by boosting your immune system's ability to fight off infections.
Other vaccines prevent the spread of diseases to others who may not be able to receive vaccines themselves, such as infants or people with certain conditions.
What are the recommended vaccines for adults?
The specific vaccines you need depend on a few factors: age, overall health, and lifestyle. However, we recommend some essential vaccines for every adult. Here's a closer look.
Influenza (flu) vaccine
We recommend the flu vaccine for everyone over six months, but it's especially important if you're an older adult or have an underlying health condition that can make you more susceptible to severe flu.
Tdap vaccine
The Tdap vaccine is a combination shot that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). We recommend it for all adults who haven't previously received it.
Shingles vaccine
Shingles is a painful and potentially debilitating condition caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. You should get this vaccine if you're over age 50, regardless of whether you've had chickenpox.
Pneumococcal vaccines
Pneumococcal vaccines protect against pneumococcal disease, which can cause serious infections, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections. We recommend a specific vaccine based on your age and health status.
Hepatitis A and B vaccines
These vaccines protect against hepatitis A and B, which are viral infections that can cause liver damage. We recommend them for adults at risk of exposure to these viruses, such as health care workers or people who are traveling to areas where hepatitis is common.
In addition to these standard vaccines, you may need others based on your specific health needs or lifestyle. For example, if you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, we may suggest you receive additional vaccines to protect your health further.
How can you make sure you’re up to date on your vaccines?
The easiest way to ensure you're up to date on your vaccines is to talk with us at your next wellness appointment. We review your vaccination history and recommend any additional vaccines you may need.
It's also important to keep track of your vaccination history. You can do this by asking us for a copy of your vaccination record or using the CDC's online tool to create a personal vaccination record.
If you haven't had a vaccine in a while and need to get back on track, don't hesitate to call 214-550-0911 or book an appointment online with Prime Choice Family Clinic & Urgent Care today.
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