Friday, October 6, 2017
Are vaccines against shingles and pneumonia right for you
Maury Regional Health
As we age, our bodies are at increased risk of health complications from certain illnesses. Maury Regional Health encourages older adults to learn how vaccines may provide protection against conditions such as pneumonia and shingles.
“When we think about vaccines recommended for older adults, the flu shot often comes to mind first. In addition to flu, seniors are susceptible to increased complications from conditions such as shingles and pneumonia. Vaccines are available to help protect seniors from each of these conditions,” said Dr. Brook Helmer, a specialist in family medicine with PrimeCare Clinic, a primary care practice operated by Maury Regional Health in Columbia.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends vaccinations against flu, pneumonia and shingles for older adults.
Influenza
Influenza—also known as flu—can occur at any time during the year, although flu season is traditionally observed from October 1 to March 1. The flu spreads through tiny drops when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. Individuals may contract the flu by breathing in these drops, or by touching items and surfaces covered with these drops and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes.
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone age six months and older, including senior adults. “Getting your annual flu shot is the first line of defense against the flu,” said Dr. Helmer.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia—one type of pneumococcal disease—is an infection of the lungs that may develop from another respiratory illness such as cold or flu. Pneumonia can affect people of any age, but older adults tend to be at the greatest risk for serious complications from pneumonia.
The CDC recommends all adults age 65 and older receive vaccination against pneumonia. “The two vaccines that protect against pneumonia may be administered one year apart,” said Dr. Helmer.
Shingles
Shingles is the body’s reaction to the reawakening of the herpes zoster virus. Caused by the same virus that gives us chicken pox, shingles causes a rash, usually along one side of the body or the face. The rash develops into blisters that form scabs and usually clear up in a few weeks. The pain associated with shingles affects the nerves of the skin. This pain can range from mild to severe and can linger for months or years—a condition called postherpetic neuralgia. About one in three people will get shingles in their lifetime and the risk increases as we age.
The CDC recommends adults age 60 and older receive a shingles vaccine, which is given in a single dose. “This vaccine is estimated to reduce the risk of developing shingles by about half,” said Dr. Helmer.
Patients are encouraged to speak to their primary care provider about the vaccines that are right for their individual situation and to check with their insurance company to determine what vaccines are covered by their plan. Learn more by calling PrimeCare Clinic at 931.540.4140.
