Up-to-Date Immunizations Are Important in Your 50s, 60s and Beyond
When many people think about vaccinations, they may picture themselves holding an infant or comforting a young child who is about to get a shot. But people in their 50s, 60s and beyond need vaccinations, too. “Getting immunized should be thought of as a lifelong, life-protecting strategy,” says Dr. Annabelle Tolentino, Internal Medicine with
Beloit Health System Clinic. “They are meant to keep people of all ages healthy.”
Shots to Protect Your Health
“Some vaccinations help keep you from getting sick. Others may prevent you from coming down with a more serious form of the illness,” she adds. Here is a look at recommended immunizations for adults age 50 and older.
Influenza: Flu is highly contagious and can become life-threatening for older people or anyone with compromised health conditions. Since the flu virus changes every year, it is important to receive the current flu vaccine in the fall or early winter months.
Pneumonia: Pneumococcal disease is a serious lung infection spread through droplets in the air. Smokers are particularly at risk. One vaccination dose is recommended for persons age 65 or older. One to two doses are recommended for smokers or persons with certain chronic medical conditions.
Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough): Tetanus (lockjaw) and diphtheria are caused by bacteria. Most people get a series of three shots for these two diseases as children. For adults, a Td booster shot every 10 years keeps you protected. A one-time dose of Tdap vaccine (including the adult whooping cough vaccine) is important if you have contact with infants, are a health care worker or simply want to be protected from whooping cough.
Shingles (zoster): People who had chickenpox when they were children still have the virus in their bodies. That virus has the potential to develop into shingles, a very painful disease that primarily strikes older adults. It’s recommended that persons 60 or older get this vaccine.
Keep in Mind
Side effects for adult vaccinations are typically mild, but may involve pain, swelling or redness at the site of the shot. Consider keeping a list of all vaccinations received, dates of your shots and any side effects.
Because some treatments or illnesses can weaken your immune system, it’s important to discuss your health history with your doctor. He or she will help determine your level of risk for infection and which vaccinations you should have. Check on this with your doctor, or call
Beloit Clinic at 608-364-2200 to find a primary care physicians.
