Although nobody enjoys getting shots at any age, adults need their vaccinations just as much as kids do. If you don’t have all of the following, consider booking an appointment at our Internal Medicine Clinic to get caught up.
Influenza (flu)
It’s easy to forget that influenza once reached pandemic proportions. The virus can still be dangerous to small children, the elderly, or anyone with a compromised immune system. Even if you’re a healthy adult, it’s important to get your flu shot every year in order to protect those around you who might be at risk.
Hepatitis B
This highly contagious virus spreads through sexual intercourse or transmission of bodily fluids and damages the liver. Severe cases can lead to the need for a liver transplant, so it’s better to protect yourself.
Pneumococcal
The two vaccines that help guard against diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria are mostly recommended for small children or elderly adults. If you’re a heavy smoker or have a history of lung infections, your doctor may recommend it to you.
Shingles
A viral infection that leads to a painful, itchy, long-lasting rash made of fluid-filled blisters, shingles is not terribly dangerous, but it’s certainly no fun. A vaccine can help reduce your risk of catching it.
Hepatitis A
This contagious liver disease can be spread through contaminated water or unsanitary condition. Especially if you plan on spending significant time in rural areas of Southeast Asia, it’s wise to get vaccinated as a precaution.
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Many adults are reluctant to get this series of three shots, however this vaccine offers protection against several of the most common strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. HPV is extremely common in sexually active adults, often has no symptoms, and is easily transmitted to sexual partners. Since there is no effective HPV test for men, many men become unwitting carriers and potentially put their female partners at risk.
Varicella (chicken pox)
If you already had chickenpox as a child or were previously vaccinated, you may not need to worry about this one. Varicella is both extremely unpleasant and highly contagious. It can also pose a risk to pregnant women.
Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough)
All of these attack the respiratory system and are both easy to spread and potentially dangerous. If you did not get these vaccinations as a child, it is important to do so as soon as possible.
