Importance of staying up to date with vaccines
Source: VaccineInformation.org
August is Immunization Awareness Month. The Immunization Action Coalition recommends immunization throughout your life. Here are several reasons to get vaccinated.
Adults are at risk.
Most illnesses, hospitalizations, disability and deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases occur among adults.
Most adults aren’t up to date.
Only about 1 in 5 adults is current on all recommended vaccines. This leaves many adults vulnerable.
Adults need more than an annual flu shot.
Most adults know they should get an influenza vaccine each year. But they may not know the current recommendations for COVID-19 and other vaccines.
Vaccines help adults stay healthy and active.
Adults need to stay healthy so that they can work or volunteer and take care of their responsibilities. Vaccines also prevent a decline in health or independence.
Vaccines protect loved ones.
Vaccines can help prevent the spread of severe illness to a loved one. This includes your spouse or partner, grandchildren, and immunocompromised people.
Vaccines prevent serious health related complications.
Vaccine-preventable disease can lead to hospitalization, damage to eyes or heart attacks.
Vaccines reduce risks related to other health conditions.
Adults need vaccinations based on their age and health conditions. Some health conditions increase the risk of severe illness. These conditions include diabetes, heart disease and lung disease.
Vaccines help adults stay healthy during travel.
Getting sick while traveling can ruin plans and be costly. Adults should discuss any upcoming travel plans with their health care providers.
