Immunizations are important for adults, too
New parents can easily become overwhelmed by the number of pediatrician visits their children need. By the time a child celebrates his or her fifth birthday, he or she has seemingly been administered dozens of immunizations. But even though people get the majority of their vaccinations while they are very young, that does not necessarily mean they can’t still benefit from immunizations later in life.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that humans never outgrow their need for vaccinations. Although certain vaccinations may no longer be necessary, others may be necessary into adulthood.
Certain vaccinations, which can safeguard individuals from longterm illness, hospitalization and even death, are now recommended for all adults. The following are some of the immunizations you may need as you age.
Influenza According to the CDC, roughly 226,000 people are hospitalized in the United States due to influenza, while thousands more die from the flu and its complications. Flu vaccines protect against various strains of the flu virus, and the vaccine is recommended for just about everyone between the ages of six months and older, including middle-aged adults. People age two and older are now advised to get the nasal mist version of the vaccination. However, adults age 50 and older should not get the mist. Individuals who are severely immunocompromised, not feeling well or those who have an allergy to eggs should speak to their doctors before getting a flu vaccination.
Pertussis (whooping cough) The CDC estimates that there are between one and three million pertussis cases in the United States each year. All adults between the ages of 19 and 64 need a one-time whooping cough booster vaccine, particularly if they will be in close contact with infants younger than 12 months. Adults are the most common source of pertussis infection in infants. Whooping cough for adults can last for several weeks or even months, causing unnecessary discomfort and leaving sufferers gasping for breath.