Adult vaccines
/ Courtesy: NBC News
It's a common misperception that the shots you got as kid will provide immunity for a lifetime. So which vaccines should you consider once you reach adulthood?
Government research shows more than 40,000 adults die each year from vaccine-preventable illnesses, compared to 1,000 children. A new survey by Walgreens finds nearly half of American adults are unaware of government-recommended vaccines for their age group. "It really is an issue I would say of awareness and access to a healthcare professional who can help educate you," said Walgreens senior vice president of Health and Wellness Jeffrey Kang.
Most of us know about yearly flu shots, but experts say all adults over age 65 should get the pneumonia vaccine. One shot should last the rest of your life.
The itchy chicken pox you had as a kid can rear their ugly little heads again now that you're an adult in the form of extremely painful shingles, but studies show a Zostavax booster shot can cut the chances of developing shingles by half, or at least reduce the severity of the disease. "There are a million cases a year of shingles and its not just a rash, its a very painful rash that can be debilitating," said Dr. Sharon Bergquist.
Doctors say the number one reason we're seeing an increase in Whooping Cough cases in children is because their parents haven't gotten their pertussis booster shot. It's added to the diphtheria and tetanus shot that's recommended every ten years. "These disease are not rare diseases that you won't encounter, they will hit home," Dr. Bergquist warns.
Doctors say the best way to protect yourself and your family is to roll up your sleeve.
The Walgreens survey shows fewer than half of participants got regular checkups, which is where they would learn if they needed a booster shot.
Do you get regular check-ups? Have you received any of the recommended shots as an adult? Do you think people are educated about which vaccines they need? Leave your thoughts below.
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Information courtesy of NBC News
