Everything you should know about vaccines for seniors

Do you have all of your vaccines up to date?

The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases estimates that 50,000 individuals die each year from infections that could have been avoided with immunization. Certain immunizations are strongly recommended for people aged 65 and up, and there may be certain important vaccines for seniors that you never received as a child. We’ve come to stand with you in the face of preventable death and illness.
It’s worth taking a chance on good health.

Unfortunately, some diseases affect not only you, but also those close to you – your family, friends, and the individuals with whom you work or contact on a regular basis. That’s why it’s critical to be vaccinated in order to protect yourself and those you care about.

The following are the most prevalent ailments that can be prevented using vaccines:

• Pneumonia – Vaccination for persons 65 and older may require two doses, depending on the indications.
• Shingles – A two-dose immunization is recommended for people aged 60 and up.
• Tetanus — A booster with Td or Tdap every 10 years after the original tetanus series.

Talk to your doctor about your specific health concerns and the necessity of getting vaccinated if you have any questions about other immunizations you should be aware of.

Don’t let yourself become a statistic.

Because your immune system decreases as you age, leaving you more susceptible to the flu and other infections, it is critical that all seniors get vaccinated. In fact, those aged 65 and up account for 70-90 percent of all flu-related fatalities and more than half of all flu-related hospitalizations.

Vaccine myths for senior citizens

Here are some myths to be aware of if you’ve been avoiding vaccinations because of what you’ve heard in the rumor mill:

As a child, I had all of my immunizations
Vaccine immunity deteriorates over time, so a booster for tetanus, diphtheria, or pertussis may be required. Consult your physician.

Vaccines can make me sick
The majority of vaccines, such as flu vaccines, are manufactured with virus cells that have died. That means they won’t be able to infect you.

I never get sick
Even if you have no or very minor symptoms, you could be carrying an infectious disease.

Speak with your doctor if you have any more questions or concerns about immunizations for older individuals.

Living a healthy lifestyle

Vaccinations are by far the most effective strategy to avoid sickness. You can adopt a few basic behaviors to help you stay as healthy as possible:

• Keep a safe distance from sick persons.
• Stay at home and relax if you’re sick.
• If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose.
• Hands should be washed thoroughly and frequently.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Maintain a healthy level of activity while also managing your stress.
• Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet.
• Inquire with your doctor about which immunizations you should receive.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or substituted for consultation with a licensed practitioner. To discover what is best for you, you should speak with a licensed specialist.