When things as demonstrably beneficial as vaccines have been saddled with unwarranted doubt, it can become necessary to overly simplify recommendations. Very bluntly, I know more about vaccines than 99% of people in the world. Your hesitation likely comes from information obtained from a dubious source (probably on-line) or a misunderstanding of how and why vaccines work. Moreover, while receiving vaccines are personal choices, your decisions have impacts on society beyond you.
Below are my general recommendations that I provide for my adult patients. (Disclosers: this is not specific medical advice as you and I do not have a previously established doctor-patient relationship.) I have reviewed the recommendations of the reputable governing bodies and I am aware of nuance for specific patients.
- Flu shot – everyone should get one every year. If you’re over 65, the high dose is better. Even if you are personally low risk, flu is highly contagious and you can help others stay well. There is no live virus in the flu shot. It would be impossible to get the flu from the shot. Your past experience was likely your body responding and mounting an immune reaction.
- Pneumonia shot – there are several versions. All people 50 and over should get at least one. Many people under 50 would benefit, as well. Discuss with your doctor, PA/NP or pharmacist about which one is most appropriate for you.
- Tetanus shot – which also has protection for Pertussis (whooping cough) and Diphtheria – every 10 years. The protection is for you personally as well as babies who can die of pertussis in the first 2 months of life before they can be vaccinated. Pregnant moms are given a NEW TDaP each pregnancy to help boost the babies’ immunity. Yes, tetanus and diphtheria are relatively rare. But that is because of vaccines. Get it if you haven’t recently, even if you aren’t afraid of rusty nails.
- Shingles shot – even if you don’t think you had chicken pox as a kid. If you’re 40 or over you probably did, even if you don’t remember or had a subclinical case. While the likelihood of getting shingles is less in people who were vaccinated as kids for chicken pox, shingles as an adult is possible. Shingles really hurts and scars and can cause blindness. It is a killed virus vaccine and cannot possibly cause shingles. I recommend for all people 50 and over.
Part 2 to follow
Check out Your Local Epidemiologist for deeper insights
DR JOSHUA USEN 