There is a lot of debate regarding vaccines these days. But it’s important not to let ongoing discussions keep you from getting the protection your body needs. Below, we discuss which vaccines elderly people should have. We’ll also discuss how often you should get them and how they benefit you.
Vaccines are important to have not only for children but also for elderly people. With some of the most common diseases becoming more prevalent among this age group, it’s imperative that everyone is protected.
And while some might think this is just for adults, it actually benefits society as a whole. Not only does it help you live longer and healthier lives, but it also protects the lives of those around you. As you age, your immune system becomes weaker, which can lead to complications with infections and other diseases.
What’s more, you may be exposed to certain viruses due to your job or the kind of lifestyle you lead. This includes travel, too, as you could be exposed to things that aren’t typically present where you live. These are all very important factors to take into consideration as you weigh the need to get vaccinated.
To ensure that you are better informed on the importance of vaccines, explore the information and data below. Here, you will learn about which vaccines every elderly person should have, as well as when you should get each vaccine, and more.
As you think about your need for vaccines, it’s important to understand which ones are essential to elderly people. We invite you to join the discussion below to learn about the most important vaccines for the elderly community.
The flu is a common disease among both children and elderly people. This year, the flu has been particularly bad, with more cases reported than in recent years. And it’s not just adults who are being affected by the flu, but also elderly people who might not be as strong and healthy as they once were.
So, when should you get the flu vaccine, and what purpose does it serve? Continue reading to find out the answers to these questions and more.
Adults aged 65 and older should get the flu vaccine every year. With the severity of the flu virus, it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Prevention is the first step in protecting yourself. As such, you should ask your doctor about getting the flu vaccine this year if you haven’t already done so.
The flu is a serious illness. It can cause severe complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, and even death. For seniors, the risk of suffering from the flu or its complications is increased.
Seniors are at higher risk for health problems than younger people because of their age and other factors, such as medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
That’s why it’s important to get the flu shot every year. Not only can you avoid contracting the flu virus, but you can prevent additional symptoms from worsening.
Unfortunately, the flu isn’t the only illness you need to be concerned about. Read on to find what other viruses and diseases pose a threat.
Pertussis (whooping cough) is an extremely contagious infection of the respiratory tract. It is most common in infants and young children but can affect people of any age, including the elderly.
The only way to protect yourself from this nasty infection is by getting vaccinated. If you’re interested in ensuring your health, read on to find out more about the Tdap vaccine and how often you should get it.
Elderly people should make sure they get the Tdap vaccine once every 10 years to prevent infection. Why is this important? Keep reading to find out.
While babies are more prone to contracting the disease, everyone is at risk of contracting pertussis. The bacterium that causes the disease, pertussis, can grow in people’s lungs and create a cough that sounds like “whooping.”
This is often followed by vomiting and exhaustion. The infection will often stick around for weeks to months after it has been cleared from the person’s system. Sadly, there is no way to avoid this other than to get vaccinated against pertussis. That’s why the vaccine is so important for the elderly.
Not only does the vaccine prevent diseases such as pertussis, but also tetanus and diphtheria. These can be extremely harmful to elderly people.
Another potential threat is shingles. Let’s discuss this virus next and the vaccine that can help you protect yourself against it.
The shingles vaccine can help to prevent shingles, a painful and itchy rash that comes from a virus. For most people, it can be very painful and lead to complications that sometimes require hospitalization.
Fortunately, you can protect yourself against shingles with the vaccine. But how often should you get the shingles vaccine?
The Shingles vaccine is available for adults over the age of 50. Therefore, you should get the booster at the age of 50 or older if you haven’t already. Keep reading to find out why this is important.
The shingles vaccine actively protects you against the shingles virus. But there are also many potential complications that can come from the disease. But the vaccine protects against them, as well.
There’s still one essential vaccine left to discuss. So, let’s finish up by covering its benefits and how often you should get it.
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is a vaccine that protects against pneumococcal disease. This single-dose vaccine is essential in combating this very serious disease. As an elderly person, you are at a far greater risk of complications if you contract pneumococcal disease.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure you get it according to medical recommendations.
In the United States, this vaccine is recommended for people over 65 years old or those with certain chronic illnesses. It’s important to talk to your doctor about your medical history and any medical conditions you currently have.
In doing so, you can protect yourself against serious infections and diseases, as discussed below.
The vaccine can also help prevent meningitis, bacteremia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
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