The Importance of Adult Vaccinations
When it comes to vaccinations, the majority of conversations center around children and the potential side effects that may result. While comprehensive studies have disproved this link, there are a number of reappearances of age-old diseases, such as whooping cough and measles. The appearance of these issues has highlighted the value offered by vaccinations for adults in Santa Clarita, especially seniors.
According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 644 cases of the measles reported in 2014, which is the largest amount of confirmed cases since the disease was deemed officially eliminated from the U.S. back in 2000. Also, in 2012 there were 48,277 cases of whooping cough, which was the highest number since 1955.
These stats make it more important than ever before to discuss adult vaccinations with health care providers. Generally speaking – adults, especially seniors, should discuss the following eight vaccines with their doctor:
- MMR vaccine: Eliminates the potential for measles, mumps and rubella.
- Tdap vaccine: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough).
- Shingles vaccine: This is a painful rash and a nerve disease that is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, and usually affects those over the age of 50. Those over 85 have a 50/50 chance of developing shingles.
- Pneumococcal vaccine: A bacterial disease that can result in mild infections; however, can also cause meningitis and pneumonia.
- Influenza vaccine: The flu vaccine.
- Meningococcal vaccine: This is the primary cause of bacterial meningitis.
Unfortunately, there are quite a few excuses used for adults to avoid vaccines, such as:
- It’s much better to let their natural immunities to do the work.
- You aren’t at risk for these diseases.
- You or someone you know became sick after the vaccine.
- You are concerned about the potential side effects.
- There are medications to treat the diseases if you do happen to catch it.
- The vaccines are ineffective.
- You don’t like shots.
- It’s too expensive.
- You don’t like the doctor.
These excuses may cause someone to develop a potentially life-threatening disease that could have been easily prevented.
The fact is that vaccinations need to be given throughout a person’s lifetime; however, this is not something that is widely practiced. There are more and more adults, and seniors, who are suffering from these otherwise preventable diseases.
At Comfort Keepers in Santa Clarita, there are more and seniors who are cared for that develop these disorders that could be easily prevented. Our care providers can even drive seniors to their appointments to ensure they receive the vaccinations that will help them remain healthy throughout their Golden years.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
