As back-to-school season approaches, it’s essential for adults to catch up on their vaccines. According to Dr. Kosta Vergos, a Family Medicine expert at McLaren Family Medicine, adult vaccination is crucial for the same reasons as pediatric vaccinations – to protect individuals and communities from infectious diseases.
There are 31 vaccine-preventable diseases, with 17 recommended vaccinations specifically for adults. Some of these vaccines include annual flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and Tdap boosters every 10 years. Other vaccines, such as shingles and pneumococcal vaccines, have specific age groups or risk categories.
Measles has seen a resurgence in recent years due to misinformation about vaccine risks. Dr. Vergos emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date on vaccinations, which can prevent serious infections that may lead to hospitalization or even death.
The CDC recommends the following adult vaccinations:
– Annual flu shot
– COVID-19 booster when available
– Tdap booster every 10 years
– Shingles vaccine for those 50 and older in two doses
– Pneumococcal vaccine for adults 65 and older with risk factors
– RSV vaccine for those at high risk of complications like pneumonia
– MMR vaccine for those born in 1957 or later who haven’t been vaccinated or infected
– Hepatitis A and B vaccines for those with specific risk factors
– HPV vaccine through age 26 and high-risk adults 27-45
If you’re unsure about your vaccination history, consult with your physician. Many states have registries to help track immunization records, including Michigan’s registry which may be accessed online. Your doctor can also provide a record form to keep track of your vaccinations.
Source: https://www.mclaren.org/flint/news/kids-headed-back-to-school-arent-the-only-ones-who-5830