Immunization Awareness Month

Immunizations Aren’t Just for Kids

As everyone is busy enjoying their summer, thoughts of the coming school year are far from the mind. However, immunizations for school-age kids are a must prior to the start of the school year.  Remember, though, immunizations are NOT just for kids! Regardless of age, we ALL need immunizations to keep us healthy. With time, immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off and you may be at risk for new and different diseases. With adulthood comes responsibility, including the need to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

The specific immunizations you need as an adult are determined by factors such as your age, lifestyle, health conditions, locations of travel, and previous immunizations. Throughout your adult life, you need immunizations to get and maintain protection against:

Seasonal influenza (flu) (for all adults)

Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) (for all adults who have not previously received the Tdap vaccine)

Shingles (for adults 60 years and older)

Pneumococcal disease (for adults 65 years and older and adults with specific health conditions)

Hepatitis B infection (for adults who have diabetes or are at risk for hepatitis B)

Other vaccinations you may need include those that protect against human papillomavirus (which can cause certain cancers), hepatitis A, meningococcal disease, chickenpox (varicella), measles, mumps and rubella.  Check with your physician to see what immunizations are right for you.

As adults, we must continue to maintain our own health because our families and loved ones depend on us to care for them and to teach them how to care for themselves. Immunizations are an important step in preventing illness and staying healthy. Be a positive role model. If you are up-to-date on all of your vaccinations, you protect yourself and those around you.