National Immunization Awareness Month

There has been much attention focused on flu vaccinations in recent months, but what about other vaccinations for adults?

By Jennifer Bunn, RN

With the H1N1 virus and the race for a vaccination dominating the headlines, it is unlikely that most adults want to think about any other vaccinations that they might require. August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the status of your immunizations. Are you up to date?

Tetanus/Diptheria - All adults should be immunized against tetanus and diptheria every 10 years throughout their adult lives. Infection with Clostridium tetani, which is found in spores in the soil and in the gastrointestinal tract of some animals, causes tetany, or severe muscle spasms. The condition can be fatal without treatment. Diptheria is an infectious respiratory illness which causes sore throat and difficulty swallowing. It sometimes causes severe swelling of the neck and can be fatal.

Pneumococcus- Streptococcus pneumoniae infection can cause a myriad of illnesses with varying degrees of severity, such as otitis media, pneumonia and meningitis. Adults 65 years of age and older require protection against pneumococcal infection, as do young adults who have diabetes or other chronic illnesses. Being immunized once for pneumococcal disease confers lifetime immunity, although those at high risk may opt to have a booster if they were vaccinated prior to age 65.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)- Women aged 26 years and younger should be vaccinated against HPV, which causes genital warts, and is also responsible for causing approximately 70% of all cases of cervical cancer.

Influenza- It is likely that this year many people will require vaccination for both the seasonal influenza virus and the H1N1 virus. This may mean that three vaccination shots will be required to be fully covered against influenza. You will want to discuss this with your doctor, especially if you are considered high risk (ie have an altered immune system, are pregnant, or have a chronic health condition).

You should be sure to complete and carry an immunization record with you, so that in case of emergency you are not needlessly vaccinated. Be sure to ask your family doctor at your yearly check-up if any vaccinations are required.

Related Links:

To Flu Shot or Not? From Health Guru

10 Reasons To Be Vaccinated from Adolesecent Vaccination.org

Adult Immunization Schedule from the CDC