Myths about adult vaccinations
THE old adage “prevention is better than cure” comes to mind when talking about vaccinations. Yet, why are adults so averse to getting vaccinated, even though they themselves are proponents of getting children vaccinated? They may be victims of preconceived notions surrounding adult vaccination. Let’s debunk the myths.
Myth 1
Vaccines are only intended for children
Contrary to common belief, vaccinations are not reserved for children. The purpose of vaccinations is to produce and strengthen the body’s defence against illnesses. In fact, some vaccines are strongly recommended for adults, such as the flu vaccine, as it can help an adult suffering from existing conditions, for instance diabetes, avoid any health complications that might otherwise arise if they were to contract the flu.
In some cases, your dream vacation may be a few shots away. Indeed, to travel to certain regions of the world, you may find yourself subjected to vaccination requirements, children and adults alike. Without the proper vaccinations, you risk bringing home more than just souvenirs, or worse, reintroducing a disease that had been wiped out to the locals.
Myth 2
Vaccines only require one shot to be effective
For some vaccines, doctors would advise you to get booster shots as an adult, even though you have already received those shots as a child. Studies show that on average, more than a single dose is necessary to develop an optimum immune response. The booster shot ensures that when needed, your body can produce enough antibodies to fight off infections.
The flu, a common illness, is triggered by viruses that evolve over time. Hence, vaccines are routinely adjusted to tackle flu and its many variants. As an adult, the shot you received in your childhood won’t cover you from the risk of catching the flu. Getting a flu shot seasonally is a good rule to live by.
Myth 3 Vaccines are scary
As childish as it may seem, some adults are scared of getting vaccinations. It may be because of the fear of needles, bad memories or succumbing to the pressures of growing antivaccine lobbying.
The key to combating those concerns is to inform yourself as best as possible using the tools at your disposal, and express your fears to an expert who will allay those fears.
Myth 4
Naturally acquired immunity is better than immunity provided by vaccines
A fact that is often brought up is the baseless argument that self-developed immunity is better than one provided by vaccines. Firstly, in order to build immunity to diseases, you will have to be exposed to the disease, which can seriously harm you.
Furthermore, by being a carrier for the disease, you are putting other people at risk, some more frail than you. Immunocompromised people, very young children and the elderly are often at risk as their immunities are often not yet built up or have atrophied.
You owe it to your community to ensure you are not spreading diseases. Ultimately, getting vaccinated is not an individual decision as it carries far too many repercussions on your community.
You owe it to your community to ensure you are not spreading diseases. Ultimately, getting vaccinated is not an individual decision. It carries far too many repercussions on your community.