Mon. 23rd Oct. 2017
There are several immunizations or “shots” that we need as seniors. As we age, we are more susceptible to some infections. We are also less able to fight off the infection if we get it. So it is a double-edged sword for the senior.
The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends the following immunizations for seniors.
1. Influenza – This is administered in the fall of the year to minimize or prevent influenza viral infection. It may not prevent the flu depending on the strain that occurs. Flu can be deadly for seniors because of the symptoms and the high potential for secondary complications. The flu is often confused with gastroenteritis. The flu does not present with vomiting and diarrhea. It is a disease of fever, aches, cough, and chills. This is an annual injection and has no carry over year to year.
2. Shingles – This is a condition that is secondary to a childhood episode of chickenpox. The virus stays in our nerves, and when there is stress and diminished immunity response with aging, the virus appears as shingles. The medical name is zoster. The water filled blister rash follows the distribution of a nerve and can be seen anywhere on the body. The water blisters open and dry. The primary issue with shingles is the potential for pain after the rash clears. If pain persists, it may require pain medications because of the severity. The shingles vaccine is administered at age 60, and there are not boosters needed. You need the injection even if you have had an episode of shingles in the past.
3. Pneumonia – A major cause of pneumonia in seniors is caused by pneumococcal bacteria. There are many different varieties and those over 65 years of age need both kinds of vaccine to be adequately protected. The injections are given one year apart and provide lifelong converge in most cases.
4. Chickenpox – If you have never had chickenpox you will want to speak to your doctor about getting the chickenpox (varicella) immunization.
5. Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis – These are recommended at differing schedules depending on your history and exposure. Talk to your healthcare provider. Pertussis is also known as whooping cough. Tetanus is a real risk and should be administered every ten years.
Staying healthy is so important. As we age, our ability to fight infection deteriorates. Do not allow a preventable condition make you sick or kill you. Most of these immunizations are covered by Medicare so are at no expense to you. Prevention is always the best medicine. Please get in touch with your healthcare provider if you are unsure about what immunizations you may need or
contact us for more information.