Covid Aside---Vaccines you Need Now

“I got my booster shot, did you?”  I am not only talking about Covid.  Many of us have forgotten the routine boosters we still need during this pandemic.

Shingrix- This is to protect us against shingles, a preventable and very painful miserable illness.  If you have had chickenpox as a child (or even as an adult), you are at risk for developing shingles as the virus lays dormant in nerve endings.  It can be triggered by illness, or stress, or other factors.  We are all eligible to get this shot beginning at age 50.  It is one shot with a booster given 2-6 months later.  Most importantly, IT IS NOT COVERED BY MEDICARE but is paid for by most commercial insurances, so please get it before you go on Medicare and have to pay for it out of pocket.  You can get it at most pharmacies or through your medical provider’s office.

Tetanus (also known as T-dap, DPT) is another vaccine important to your overall health. The Diptheria/ tetanus part of the vaccine is given every ten years; however, if you have a significant injury, possibly requiring stitches, a dog bite or a cut on a rusty object, you will have to get a booster after five years.  Keep track of the dates of these shots as your providers may not remind you.

Pertussis is a part of the T-dap and is given once in adulthood (and before you become a parent or grandparent).  Pertussis is making a comeback. Although adults typically don’t get very ill, infants and young children can, and we need to protect them.

Pneumonia-there are two pneumonia vaccines at the moment. However, two new ones will be available shortly.  At the very least, as of this writing, everyone 65 and over (particularly those with lung issues) should get the Pneumovax (PPSV23).  Check with your health provider, and I will be writing more on this shortly.

Flu-Yes, we still need our flu vaccines. Last year was not a bad season, probably as we didn’t venture out much, and most of us wore our masks.  This year may be different, and the flu can kill you, or at the very least, make you pretty sick and possibly hospitalize you.  Just because you didn’t get it last year (or the year before etc.) doesn’t mean you can’t get it this year.  Despite thoughts to the contrary, the flu shot DOES NOT CAUSE THE FLU.

So please get all of your shots.

#Beyourownadvocate. #Goodhealthcareisuptoyou. #Staysafe #Educateyourself. #Ifindoubtcallanadvocate