Vaccines for adults
As we age, it is essential for adults to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations. The CDC recommends six particular vaccines that can help protect individuals from common illnesses like the flu and pneumonia; these are critical immunizations for parents and grandparents alike! Taking proactive steps towards health now could save a lot of headaches later – so make sure you’re armed with all the facts about protective adult vaccination programs.
1. Tdap or Td
Despite preventive measures like the Tdap vaccine, being exposed to highly contagious and life-threatening illnesses such as tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough), especially in infants under six weeks of age is still a major risk. Recent studies have even found that this form of protection gradually loses strength over time - leaving you vulnerable along with those around you.
If it’s been more than 10 years since you’ve had this vaccine, and you’re healthy enough to receive it, schedule your vaccination as soon as you can. Most adults can get a Td, but if you’re over 65 and around infants, you may need the Tdap, which includes the whooping cough component.
2. MMR
Time to take action! Measles, mumps and rubella are viruses that pose serious health risks—and they’re on the rise in the United States. Vaccination is your first line of defense against these contagious diseases. Whether you're a college student or teacher, healthcare employee or simply traveling abroad - it's time to get immunized for peace of mind (let us check your medical records just in case)! Don't wait: contact our office today and start protecting yourself from measles, mumps & rubella with this life-saving vaccine.
3. Chickenpox
Prior to 1995 the chickenpox vaccine wasn’t part of the recommended immunizations for children. Since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention started recommending all children be vaccinated against the chickenpox virus, the disease is at an all-time low. If you weren’t immunized against chickenpox, and you suspect you’ve never had the disease, contact us to schedule your two shots, given 28 days apart.
4. Hepatitis A and B
Each year, more than 2,000 individuals have their lives affected by the serious risks posed by Hepatitis A and B. These infections of the liver can cause permanent damage that may never be fully repaired - but it's not too late to protect yourself! Dr. Razzaq-Ahmed is here to advise you on whether a vaccination for both viruses will give you up to 25 years of immunity from this potential health hazard. Be sure your guard against hepatitis if there are higher risk factors present in your life as related travel abroad or contact with someone who has been infected already.. Take action now so that tomorrow won't bring any regrets about being unprepared for these dangerous diseases!
5. Flu
Doctors agree that the easiest way to curb the spread of deadly influenza is through the flu vaccine. You can cut your risk of coming down with the flu by about half by simply getting vaccinated. And if you’re vaccinated and still get the flu, it’s likely to be a much shorter, less severe case. You'll need a flu shot each year as the strains of the viruses change and evolve from one flu season to the next.
6. Pneumococcal
The pneumococcal vaccine protects you from the virus that causes pneumonia. Upwards of 1 million Americans are hospitalized due to pneumonia each year. Vulnerable groups, such as infants, young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, are especially at risk for complications from the virus, such as meningitis and blood infections. The vaccine is available for your protection and the protection of those around you.
