Vaccines are not just for kids

By Janet Benavente, October 2007
Colorado State University
Extension, Adams County

Families often ignore immunizations after the children in the family finish school. However, it's important for adults to protect themselves from infectious diseases. David Neumann, Ph.D. Director of the National Coalition for Adult Immunization, recently wrote, "Vaccination's greatest impact is reducing the severity of symptoms and the need for hospitalization." Immunizations not only protect the person being immunized, but also protect family members and friends.

The sixth leading cause of death in the United States is infection of the lungs caused by bacteria (pneumococcal pneumonia) and complications of influenza (flu). There are vaccines for both of these deadly illnesses. In flu epidemics, 8 of 10 who die are over 60 years old. The U.S. Public Health Service's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the American Academy of Family Physicians both recommend an annual flu shot for adults 50 and over. The protection provided by the flu vaccine begins about two weeks after the vaccine is administered. In addition, the U.S. Public Health Service recommends that every adult over age 65 get the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine.

Other vaccines recommended for older adults include tetanus, mumps and measles, hepatitis B, tuberculosis, and diphtheria. It is estimated that 7 of 10 older persons have never received the necessary tetanus vaccinations. After the initial tetanus immunization, physicians recommend a tetanus booster every 10 years. Older adults who have never been immunized against mumps and measles should be immunized. Mumps and measles can be deadly for older adults. This special focus on the importance of immunizations for aging adults is triggered by several changes that come with age.

  • The immune system function becomes less efficient with age.
  • The central nervous system is less sensitive to immune signals and doesn't react as quickly or efficiently to infections.
  • Adults 70 and older are more likely to produce auto-antibodies, which attack the joints and arteries, than to produce infection-fighting cells.
  • Older adults are often nutritionally deficient.
  • Older adults experience depression and stress that suppress immunity.

Some people avoid getting immunizations because they fear side effects or because of the misconception that immunizations cause illness. The Adult Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch of the CDC's National Immunization Program emphasizes that flu shots do not contain live viruses so they cannot cause the flu. Immunizations trigger the body's immune system to make antibodies that will safeguard against active viruses. However, mild discomforts such as headache, low-grade fever, or soreness at the site of the injection are sometimes mistaken for the flu.

Another factor that may keep people from getting a recommended immunization is the cost. Individuals covered by Medicare can receive flu and pneumococcal immunizations at no cost. For those not covered by Medicare, vaccinations are often offered at health fairs, senior centers and community health clinics for a low fee. Check with your local health department and senior center to locate where these low cost or free immunizations are available. Talk with your health care provider to determine which immunizations are recommended for you. Don't risk getting preventable diseases. Immunizations combined with sound nutrition, an active social life, and treatment for depression all contribute to improved health and reduced medical costs.

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Updated Monday, August 29, 2011