Adults and Vaccines: You Still Need Them

 

                Can you remember the last time you got a vaccine? This may be an indicator that you are due for some boosters. The CDC recommends that adults between the ages of 19-64 receive a seasonal flu vaccine, and boosters for Tdap, Hep A, Hep B, HPV, Meningitis, Pneumococcal, and shingles vaccines. According to the CDC, only 1 out of 5 adults are receiving their pneumococcal and shingles vaccines. Additionally, only 1 out of 6 received their Tdap vaccine within 7 years to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).

      So why should you get these vaccines? Here are just a few reasons why.

• High risk- Many diseases like influenza, and pertussis are common in the US, and can spread easily. This is especially the case in schools and densely populated places.

• Complications- If you have a chronic health condition or weakened immune system, you may be at risk for complications from vaccine preventable diseases. Some examples of complications are long-term illness, hospitalization, or even death.

• Spreading Disease- Most vaccine preventable diseases are contagious like the flu, meningitis, and whooping cough. Getting your recommended vaccines will help stop the spread of these diseases.

• Protection- When you get your vaccine you are not only protecting yourself, but others as well. Many people that cannot receive these vaccines, due to medical conditions like pregnancy or cancer treatment. This also helps in protecting newborns, who are very vulnerable to these diseases but are too young to be vaccinated.
• Missing work/school- Vaccines help keep you healthy and reduce the chance of missing work or school. Many of us have tentative schedules and cannot afford to be absent from work or class.

• Missing out- Spending time with family, friends and hobbies can be significantly reduced if you’re in bed sick.

• Price- Being sick costs money. You’ll have to take into consideration medical visits, treatments, time off work or school, and traveling to healthcare providers.

• Traveling- If your job entails traveling internationally or you just love to travel, this puts you at risk for certain diseases. If you are traveling internationally make sure to get traveling advice. You may need additional vaccines.

• Peace of mind- Knowing that you've been vaccinated before a disease becomes an outbreak in your area can put your mind at ease. You don’t want to be caught in the mess of sickness.

• Feeling Healthy- There are more than a handful of diseases that you can be protected against with a simple vaccine. 

       You can get your vaccines at your doctor’s office, health departments, pharmacies, and some workplaces even offer them. Don’t let something as easy as a vaccine pass you by. Get vaccinated!