Essential Vaccines for Seniors
As we age, our immune system naturally declines, increasing our vulnerability to diseases. Similar to maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly, vaccinations act as a protective barrier, safeguarding us against various illnesses that can be especially serious for older adults.
Key Vaccines Recommended for Seniors
Influenza Vaccine
Influenza poses a significant risk to older adults, with symptoms typically appearing suddenly and can vary in severity. These can include fever, cough, body pain, chills, and headaches. When not managed, influenza can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals aged 65 and older receive either a high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine, which has been shown to provide better protection compared to standard-dose vaccines. Annual vaccination is crucial as the flu virus evolves each year.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal infections can lead to serious conditions like meningitis and bloodstream infections. It is recommended to receive the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) followed by the polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) after a certain interval. This combination helps bolster immunity against pneumococcal diseases.
COVID-19 Vaccine
Over 776 million confirmed cases have been reported worldwide since the pandemic began, and approximately 80% of COVID-19 mortality occurs in individuals aged 65 and older. Since COVID-19 is still present globally, the CDC advises us to stay current with COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster shots, to maintain optimal protection against severe outcomes.
RSV Vaccine
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects the respiratory tract. If you’re a healthy adult, RSV may usually present itself with mild symptoms similar to the common cold. However, in high-risk adults, it can lead to more severe conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Vaccines are now available to specifically protect us against RSV, which is crucial given the potential for hospitalisation and life-threatening complications in this age group.
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles is a viral infection characterised by a painful skin rash. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus, which is also responsible for chickenpox. Even if you had chickenpox in childhood, the varicella zoster virus can remain dormant in the nerve cells. Typically, the virus remains inactive; however, it can reactivate later in life.
The shingles vaccine, specifically Shingrix, is highly recommended to prevent shingles and its complications, including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). After getting vaccinated, you may expect common side effects, including pain at the injection site, muscle pain, and fatigue. These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a few days.
Prioritising vaccination not only protects our health but also contributes to the broader community’s safety. Stay informed and proactive about the essential vaccines for seniors and be able to enjoy healthier aging and a better quality of life.
