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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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October 7, 2008 |
A Publication of QVHD |
Shots for Big “Kids”
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
We tend to think of shots
(immunizations) as only being for little kids. But there are several
shots for “big” kids, some of which are for all and some that should
especially be considered for those who travel or work in a field where
they are exposed to blood and body fluids.
For example, every year a small number of older Americans die due to a
totally preventable disease: Tetanus. Many people forget that as they
age, their immunity to certain diseases may wane. This can be
particularly true with tetanus. The tetanus germ is always in the
environment, hiding in soil and dirt. During everyday activities such as
gardening or outside recreation, the tetanus bacteria can enter a cut or
wound in the skin. All persons should have a tetanus booster every 10
years. For very serious cuts or wounds, a booster may be readministered
within 5 years. The next time you visit a doctor, why not ask for a
booster shot? If you are getting a booster, be sure to ask for the
tetanus shot that has the diphtheria and pertussis booster if you have
not had one within the last two years. (The pertussis part is new.)
An annual flu shot is recommended for all adults over the age of 50, but
also a vaccine that everyone should consider receiving if they wish to
decrease their chance of getting the flu. It may not be a 100% guarantee
that you won't get the flu, but generally is pretty effective against
flu if the composition of the shot matches the germs that are
circulating. It is also believed that if you have had the shot and do
get the flu, your illness will be less severe than if you hadn't had the
flu shot.
Pneumonia shots are recommended for all adults over age 65 and for
adults with chronic illness or compromised immune systems. This shot is
currently a once or twice in a life-time immunization, depending on the
age at which you receive it. It protects against 23 of the most common
strains of pneumonia. If you have had one pneumonia shot, check with
your health care provider about the need for a booster. There is no
recommendation for a third shot at this time.
A shingles shot is recommended for persons age 60 and over. It is about
50% effective in preventing shingles. The shingles shot (known as
Zoster) is not covered by most insurance companies, so you should be
aware that it is a fairly expensive shot ($150-200.) Another drawback to
private physicians carrying this shot is that it has to be kept frozen
and many doctor's offices do not have a freezer. If you want to get this
immunization, check with your local walk-in health clinics. Many of them
carry this immunization. (Note: at the time of this writing, there is a
shortage in the availability of this vaccine. It is expected to be only
temporary.)
Hepatitis B shots are essential for any adult who has continued exposure
to blood and/or body fluids on the job or in doing volunteer work. This
is a series of three immunizations. The first two give you most of your
immunity. The third acts like a booster. Currently, additional boosters
are not recommended. Hepatitis A should also be considered, especially
for those who travel a lot.
Speaking of travel, many countries require additional immunizations. If
you are planning a trip, DO NOT WAIT until the week or two before you
are leaving to get your shots. Many times, travel immunizations require
two or three immunizations at least a month apart. It also takes time
for the immunity from the injection to kick in. Not all doctors can give
you the immunizations you require and you may have to go to a travel
clinic. There may be a waiting period to get an appointment. If you are
traveling and have access to a computer, go to
www.cdc.gov, “travel” to find out what
you will need for travel to that country. It is an excellent resource
and will provide you with any current outbreaks or conditions that you
should know about.
Most of the adult shots can be given together on the same day. For
written information on any of these immunizations, District residents
can call 248-4528 or request on line,
www.qvhd.org, “contact us.” Specify topics please.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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