Adults need vaccines too? You bet. Find out why.

Back to school for kids also means time to get those immunizations up to date. But did you know that most adults, age 50 and older, may also need a few important vaccines as well?

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and what better time to check with your physician to see what vaccines may be appropriate for your age.

“One of the most important immunizations for adults to have each year is the Influenza vaccine,” said Dr. Jose Vazquez, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Augusta University and AU Medical Center. “In elderly or older adults, in particular, the flu can turn deadly very quickly.”

There was a was a high severity of the H3N2 influenza strain with record-breaking levels of influenza-like illness and hospitalization rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“We hope to save more lives through appropriate and timely flu vaccinations,” Vazquez said.

Furthermore, vaccines are necessary throughout our lives. Adults should keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines may wear off over the years. Other factors that can influence the need for different vaccines in adults include the individual’s underlying health conditions, career, lifestyle, and travel habits.

Other important adult vaccines include Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), pneumococcal (pneumonia prevention), and shingles.

“Immunizations have proven to be very safe, and they are widely available. I recommend asking your primary care doctor about what vaccines you need to promote better health and prevent communicable diseases,” Vazquez said.

To schedule an interview with Dr. Jose Vazquez, click on his expert profile.

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