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VA Cincinnati Medical Center
A member of The VA Health Care System of Ohio (VISN 10)
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Each year in the United
States nearly 40,000 adults die from vaccine-preventable
diseases or their complications. Both the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention and the American
College of Physicians recommend the following immunizations
for adults:
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Flu:
Adults over 50 (especially those older than 65) should
get a flu shot every year. It can prevent 50% to 60%
of hospitalizations and 80% of deaths from influenza-related
complications among the elderly. Flu shots are available
October through December.
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Pneumonia: Adults (especially those older
than 65) should get this shot every five years. It
is about 60% effective in preventing pneumonia.
Tetanus: Adults should get a
booster every 10 years. Many people know they need
a tetanus shot if they step on a rusty nail, but few
realize that tetanus can be contracted other ways,
such as by puncture wounds of any kind.
Diphtheria:
Immunization against this bacterial infection usually
is given in combination with the tetanus-pertussis
vaccine. Adults should be vaccinated and will need
a booster every 10 years.
Hepatitis:
There is a safe and effective vaccine for Hepatitis
A and B infectious liver diseases. Hepatitis A can
be spread by infected individuals, by drinking water,
or by eating shellfish contaminated with the virus.
If you like shellfish, it is encouraged that you get
a Hepatitis A immunization. Older adults traveling
abroad should also get a Hepatitis A vaccine.
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| Reviewed/Updated Date:
August 21, 2008
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