“Not just for kids: why adults need vaccines too” is a collaborative post.
Most of us think of vaccines as something only children need. But vaccines play an important role in adult health as well. Just like vaccines help protect children from serious diseases, they can help keep adults healthy by preventing illnesses that tend to strike later in life. This article explores some of the key vaccines for adults, why they are crucial, and who should get them.
Why vaccines are important for adults
There are several important reasons why vaccines are just as crucial for adults as they are for children.
Immunity wanes over time
Immunity from some childhood vaccines can decrease over time, leaving adults vulnerable to diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella. Getting booster shots as an adult helps strengthen immunity against these illnesses.
New health risks emerge
As we age, we become prone to different infections than children, like shingles, pneumonia, and flu. Adult vaccines help protect against these emerging health threats.
Protecting vulnerable populations
Some populations like pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised people are at higher risk for certain diseases. Vaccinating these groups can help provide a cocoon of protection.
Preventing spread
Adults can spread illnesses to those around them, including infants who are too young to be vaccinated. Vaccinating adults helps stop the spread of disease to those most vulnerable.
The flu vaccine
The flu vaccine is recommended every year for adults of all ages, starting at 6 months old. Annual flu shots are especially important for adults over the age of 50 and people with chronic medical conditions. Getting vaccinated not only protects you from getting sick with the flu, but it also prevents it from spreading to more vulnerable populations.
The shingles vaccine
It is recommended to get the shingles vaccine starting at age 50 to prevent shingles. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and results in a painful rash. Healthy adults ages 65 and over should get two doses of the shingles vaccine given between 6 and 12 months apart. Those with compromised immune systems can get the shingles vaccine at age 50. For full shingles vaccine eligibility details, check online for a clinic offering private shingles vaccine Oxford.
The Boostrix-IPV vaccine
The Boostrix-IPV vaccine provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Adults under 65 who have not been vaccinated against these serious diseases should ask their GP for the relevant vaccinations. As of July 1st, 2024, pregnant women will be offered the ADACEL vaccine for pertussis during the third trimester of every pregnancy.
The pneumococcal vaccine
There are two pneumococcal vaccines that protect against pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. Adults over the age of 65 who have not had this vaccination should visit their GP. Adults under 65 with certain medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease should also get vaccinated.
Vaccines are not just for kids – they provide important protection for adults as we age. Talk to your doctor about staying up-to-date on recommended vaccines like the flu, shingles, and pneumococcal vaccinations. Vaccination protects you and prevents the spread of disease to more vulnerable populations.
