Nurses know that immunizations are just as important for adults as they are for kids. Not only can adults get vaccine-preventable diseases, they can spread them to the un- and under-immunized, such as infants and immunocompromised individuals.

Far too many adults become ill, are disabled, and die each year from diseases that could easily have been prevented by vaccines. Here's a list of diseases that can be prevented by immunization. Some immunizations are vital for most adults, especially senior citizens. Others are appropriate for only certain people.

Especially serious diseases for adults age 65 or older:
Diphtheria | Herpes Zoster (shingles) | Influenza (flu) | Pneumococcus | Tetanus (lockjaw)

Here is a list of vaccines that are recommended for adults by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Influenza - Every flu season for people over 50
• Tetanus/Diptheria/Pertussis - Once every ten years for any adult 18-64
• Pneumococcal - One dose for anyone over 65 (or for high-risk adults over 50)
• Varicella - Two doses for any adult who has not had varicella (chicken pox) disease
• Zoster - One dose for adults over 60

Some adults incorrectly assume that the vaccines they received as children will protect them for the rest of their lives. Generally this is true, except that:

• Some adults were never vaccinated as children
• Newer vaccines were not available when some adults were children
• Immunity can begin to fade over time
• As we age, we become more susceptible to serious disease caused by common infections (e.g., flu, pneumococcus)

Resources:

• Washtenaw County Public Health Immunization Program
• Vaccine coverage and surveillance
• Vaccine preventable diseases
• Vaccine schedules

Washtenaw County Public Health encourages you to consult with your healthcare provider to learn what immunizations you may need.