Immunizations Aren’t Just for Kids

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Adults need shots (also called vaccinations or immunizations) to help protect us from serious diseases, just like kids do. Shots can prevent serious diseases like the flu, measles, and tuberculosis (TB). It’s important to know which shots you need and when to get them, not only to protect yourself, but also to protect your loved ones and your community.

  • Here’s a quick list of adult immunizations to help you make sure you are up to date on your shots.
  • Get a flu shot every year[http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/shotsvaccines/protect-yourself-from-seasonal-flu]. The seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu.
  • Get the Tdap shot to protect against tetanus (“TET-nes”), diphtheria (“dif-THEER-ee-ah”), and whooping cough (pertussis). Everyone needs to get the Tdap shot ONCE, and pregnant women need a dose during every pregnancy.
    Get a Td shot every 10 years to protect against tetanus and diphtheria.
  • If you are age 60 or older, get a shot to prevent shingles. Shingles causes a rash and can lead to pain that lasts for weeks or months.
  • If you are age 65 or older, get a shot to prevent pneumonia[http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/shotsvaccines/get-a-pneumonia-shot]. This shot is sometimes called PPSV. Some adults will also need a shot to prevent pneumonia before age 65.
  • For a more complete list of shots adults need and at what age to get them, please consult this chart from the Center for Disease Control: [http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/downloads/adult/adult-schedule-easy-read.pdf]

Immunization is the best way to prevent dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases from spreading in our communities. Talk to your doctor or nurse to make sure that everyone in your family gets the shots they need. For more information, you can visit this site.

If you are a senior citizen living alone and have no one to accompany you to your office visits, FirstLight Home Care is here for you! Give them a call. They offers complete companion and personal care services for seniors (and others in need of assistance).

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FirstLight Home Care of Chardon
440-286-1342
toll free 855-207-0812

Geauga News
Author: Geauga News