Vaccinations

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For our health  — vaccinations!  And not just COVID

(This is for your consideration.  Your physician is the ultimate guide regarding your personal health.)

The spotlight is on COVID vaccinations right now, but adults and kids can be vulnerable to other diseases — especially those considered childhood diseases.  

As we prepare to gather in groups in the near future, we may want to consider ramping up our immunizations.

Please refer to https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/rec-vac/index.html

Here is a summary:

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (whooping cough)

Yes — we do need boosters, as our immunities do wear off.  

  • Every adult should get the Tdap vaccine once if they did not receive it as an adolescent to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), and then a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years. In addition, women should get the Tdap vaccine each time they are pregnant, preferably at 27 through 36 weeks.  (This is especially important for folks who are around young kids.)

Mumps, Measles, Rubella

I remember having each one of these.  The misery of mumps!  The 106 temperature of measles! 

Do adults need a booster?  Here is what the CDC says:

Adults who do not have presumptive evidence of immunity should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine.

Certain adults may need 2 doses. Adults who are going to be in a setting that poses a high risk for measles or mumps transmission should make sure they have had two doses separated by at least 28 days. These adults include

  • students at post-high school education institutions
  • healthcare personnel
  • international travelers

Flues, Shingles, Pneumonia

  • Shingles vaccine, which protects against shingles and the complications from the disease (recommended for healthy adults 50 years and older)
  • Pneumococcal vaccine (PPSV23), which protects against serious pneumococcal disease, including meningitis and bloodstream infections (recommended for all adults 65 years or older, and for adults younger than 65 years who have certain health conditions)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), which protects against serious pneumococcal disease and pneumonia (recommended for all adults with a condition that weakens the immune system, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or cochlear implant)

Again, decisions about vaccinations should be made with the advice of your health care professional.

Looking forward to a safe, happy return fo BBUUC.