What are the recommendations for vaccinations in the adult population ?
In the U.S., vaccines have greatly reduced or eliminated many infectious diseases that once routinely killed or harmed infants, children, and adults. However, the viruses and bacteria that cause these diseases still exist and you can still get these diseases if you aren’t vaccinated.
Even if you received the vaccines you needed as a child, the protection from some vaccines can wear off. You may also be at risk for other diseases due to your job, lifestyle, travel, or health conditions.
How vaccines can lower your chance of getting certain diseases.
Vaccines work with your body’s natural defenses to help you safely develop immunity to disease. This lowers your chances of getting certain diseases and suffering from their complications.
Source:- Adapted from CDC.gov
Vaccines for Adults: Which Do You Need?
All individuals older than 6 months should receive the flu vaccine annually. People with egg allergy can receive the vaccine in a supervised medical setting which is equipped to handle allergic reaction to the vaccine.
Pneumococcal vaccine
- PPSV23 (Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) protects against pneumococcal disease.
- Pneumococcus can cause pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and meningitis.
PPSV23 is recommended for:
- All adults 65 years or older,
- Anyone 2 years or older with certain medical conditions that can lead to an increased risk for pneumococcal disease.
Shingrix: Herpes zoster vaccine, also called Shingles vaccine
- Recommended for all people 50 years and older.
- Shingrix is administered in 2 doses that are separated, at minimum, 2 to 6 months apart.
HPV Vaccine
- Given to prevent cervical cancers and genital warts.
- 1st DOSE: 11 to 12 years.
- 2nd DOSE: 6 TO 12 after the 1st dose.
- Recommended for everyone through age 26 years, if not vaccinated already.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Routine Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for all persons aged 1 year or older who have HIV infection, regardless of their level of immune suppression.
Hepatitis B vaccine
Recommended for:
- People with high risk sexual exposure
- Healthcare workers.
- Patients with HIV, Hepatitis C, chronic liver disease, on hemodialysis
- Check CDC.gov for further recommendations.
DTaP- Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine
Meningitis Vaccine
Recommended for people with complement deficiency, absent spleen or who are microbiologists. They should receive a meningitis B booster dose 1 year after completion of a primary series. After that, they should receive booster doses every 2 to 3 years for as long as they are at elevated risk.
Conclusion
Vaccinations can protect you and your loved ones from certain illness. Get vaccinated as soon as possible if you are due for your shots. Prevention is better than cure!
