What is the importance of adult vaccinations?
As we age, we become more susceptible to illnesses such as influenza (flu) and pneumococcal pneumonia. People with a chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, or chronic lung disease, and those older than 65 years of age are at a greater risk of developing serious complications from influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, and would benefit the most from recommended adult immunizations. Influenza, more commonly referred to as “the flu,” is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 200,000 are hospitalized and 36,000 die in the U.S. each year with serious flu-related complications. Influenza (flu) vaccines are recommended yearly in the fall or early winter. This vaccine is usually available September through January, and sometimes later. Vaccination is the single best way to protect yourself and the people you love from influenza. Pneumococcal pneumonia is an infection in the lungs caused by bac
