Winter does not only bring falling leaves, north winds and icy snow, but it also brings influenza, colds, and coughs. For seniors with weakened immune systems, that can mean lengthy hospitals stays or worse, even death. Immunizations and vaccines are important for many reasons, but especially for the elderly to remain healthy throughout the fall and winter months.
Four of the most important vaccines suggested by the Center of Disease Control for seniors are covered by Medicare: Influenza, Shingles (Zoster), Pneumococcal, and the Hepatitis B vaccines. Recently, however, another immunization has been added to the list, because of the recent rise in cases of whooping cough among those 65 years and older, so the Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine is now suggested, but check with your Medicare carrier to make sure it is covered.
Webster’s dictionary defines vaccine as an antigenic preparation used to stimulate the production of antibodies and procure immunity from one of several diseases, such as those that seem to affect older Americans most.
It’s amazing that in 1918, the Spanish flu killed more people around the world (50 million), than those claimed in WWI (16 million). I know that my grandfather buried his mother, father, and expectant wife within days of each other during that time. Within months it killed more people than any other illness in recorded history and one that afflicted over 25 percent of the population in the U.S. So, when you think of vaccinations, think of controlling something that could potentially curb the possibility of an epidemic.
Strains of influenza affect the lives of American’s each year, and those 65 years old and over are at greater risk because their immune systems are weakened which makes it more difficult to fight off disease, especially those who have chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. According to the CDC a higher dose vaccine was created for older adults, so seniors need to talk to their doctors about that option. These vaccinations can be given by appointment with personal physicians or by visiting local clinics or drug stores.
The Shingles vaccine is another one important for seniors. Shingles is a painful skin rash that’s caused by the chickenpox virus; however, it is less contagious than chickenpox and can only be passed on to someone when the infected blisters begin to scab, but the pain from it can linger a long time after the signs of it are gone. Those who are 60 years and older should get the vaccine, and the CDC recommends for healthy seniors a two-dose vaccine, which are usually given several months apart. If you have already had the one-dose vaccine, discuss with your physician whether the two-dose is needed.
Pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine reduces the risk of this debilitating disease that can cause severe infections throughout the bloodstream and/or key organs. The results can include pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia (infection of the bloodstream), as well as deafness, brain damage, loss of limbs and even death. This disease kills approximately 18,000 adults 65 years and older each year. Although the pneumococcal vaccine is a one time shot suggested by the CDC, some doctors suggest a booster 5 to 10 years later.
With Hepatitis B in the news lately, the CDC suggests a vaccination to lower the risk of contacting the contagious virus that infects the liver. Hep B usually lasts a few weeks and often has symptoms similar to the flu, like fever and nausea. Older adults are more susceptible because as they age, so does their liver and its function, making them vulnerable to hep B, a disease for which there is no specific treatment for the symptoms. Most Americans are vaccinated against it as infants, so if you are not sure about your vaccination, contact your doctor. It is a series of three or four injections over six months.
Last, the Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine reduces the possibility of contacting this infectious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable coughing. Over the years, the U.S. has seen the rise of pertussis in children as well as older adults.
Vaccinations are no longer just for the very young, they are also for older Americans who want to continue “aging gracefully” and remain healthy throughout the fall and winter years of their lives. So, if you are 60 years or older, talk to your doctor about these and other vaccinations to keep you and those around you healthy.