Adult Vaccinations

March 9th, 2014

Many adults do not realize they still need immunizations even after they have graduated from the pediatrician’s office.  As a result, we are seeing a resurgence in vaccine preventable diseases in adults.  Part of the reason is that many adults are not seeing primary care doctors and are not keeping records of their vaccines.  We are seeing large increases in measles, mumps, and pertussis (whooping cough) cases.  Many people may also not be aware that diseases such as shingles (the adult reactivation of chickenpox on the skin) and pneumonia, have effective vaccines that can reduce complications or even prevent them.  These are especially important if you have chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma as these conditions can increase your chance for getting sick.  The next time you talk to your physician, ask him/her what vaccines you should get.  Also, be sure to keep a record in a safe place so that you remember when you got the vaccines and when you are due for your next one.

If you are traveling to a foreign country, it is important to contact your physician to find out what vaccines you need to have updated or if there are any health issues you need to address before leaving.  Do this as soon as you have booked your tickets.  Many vaccines can take up to 2-3 weeks to become effective.

Shots are not just for kids. Make sure you protect yourself and keep up to date with your routine vaccines.