Difficulty breathing and chest pain are two severe symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is particularly dangerous for seniors as it can lead to severe complications or exacerbate existing conditions. The RSV vaccine can help older adults avoid infections.
According to studies cited by KFF Health News, the vaccine is 75% effective in preventing emergency visits and hospitalizations among patients between 60 and 74. It is among the key vaccines recommended for seniors. Other vaccines that could help older adults avoid severe health complications include the flu, shingles, and pneumococcal vaccines.
These vaccines can help active seniors in Redding, CA, maintain their independent lifestyle, ensuring that they continue to enjoy the city's natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and social events in and around the vibrant downtown area. If you're one of them, this article offers a comprehensive guide on recommended senior immunizations, where to access them, and tips for staying up-to-date.
One of the effects of aging is a gradual weakening of the immune system, a natural phenomenon that makes seniors more susceptible to serious illnesses and complications from preventable diseases. Vaccines help seniors build immunity and protect against infections that can lead to severe health issues, hospitalizations, or even death.
Vaccinations are also vital because they:
Vaccinated individuals are also less likely to spread infectious diseases to others.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several vaccines for adults 19 and older. The following are the vaccines recommended for seniors:
Seniors, particularly those born before widespread childhood vaccination became available, should also get the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Influenza is a virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. It can lead to:
The enhanced flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of emergency room visits and hospitalizations for influenza, particularly in seniors. The flu shot for seniors should be taken annually, preferably before the end of October, before the peak of flu season.
Caused by the SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 is highly contagious and was responsible for the pandemic in January 2020. The risk of severe outcomes leading to hospitalization as a result of the disease increases in adults 65 and over, and the vaccine can help decrease this.
Updated recommendations for 2024-2025 include at least 2 doses, updated annually for those in the 65+ age group. Seniors need to stay current with their boosters, as the vaccine's effectiveness decreases over time.
RSV infects the respiratory tract and is often difficult to distinguish from other respiratory viruses. It can cause severe illness in older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions.
Seniors should strongly consider the RSV vaccine to prevent serious complications that might lead to hospitalization. Adults 75 and older and those between 60 and 74 who are at higher risk due to certain health conditions should take one dose. Late summer or early fall is an optimal time to get the vaccine.
The pneumonia vaccine helps prevent bacterial infections that cause serious illnesses. These risks can include:
There are two main types of pneumococcal vaccines- the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV). The primary option recommended for adults 65 and older is either PCV20 or PCV21. Seniors, especially those with certain risk factors or who have never received PCV, should receive one to two doses based on their health status.
Shingles is a viral disease that causes a painful rash anywhere on the body. Complications may include:
The risk of shingles increases with age because the virus can become active when the immune system weakens. Two doses are recommended for adults 50 and older to help prevent shingles and any related complications.
The Tdap/Td vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Tetanus is caused by bacteria that enter the body through wounds and can lead to painful muscle stiffness and spasms. Diphtheria is a respiratory illness spread through droplets that causes breathing difficulties and heart problems.
Also known as whooping cough, pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause severe coughing fits. All three can be particularly dangerous to seniors, but a booster every 10 years can help prevent infection. Seniors with injuries requiring wound management should consider this vaccine if more than five years have elapsed since their last dose.
Redding health services for seniors include a comprehensive range of recommended vaccines at local medical groups, public health clinics, and pharmacies. Senior immunizations in Redding are available at:
You can also ask your healthcare provider or inquire about community vaccination events that some clinics may offer.
How can you ensure your adult vaccination schedule is current? Keep a personal vaccination record and schedule annual checkups with your healthcare provider to review your vaccine status.
Non-profit organizations like immunize.org offer a list of apps to help track vaccinations. They also have live phone agents, or you can email them for inquiries.
Vaccines recommended for seniors include the flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines. Seniors should also consider pneumonia, shingles, and Tdap/Td vaccines to maintain their health. Your healthcare provider can advise on the immunizations you should receive based on your medical history.
An active lifestyle can also make you less susceptible to or improve outcomes of infectious diseases. Shasta Estates makes maintaining your overall well-being easy with exclusive programs that include healthy meals, social activities, and health and wellness initiatives. Contact us to learn more about how we help you not only maintain your health, but enhance your quality of life.