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 bacteria called streptococcus pneumoniae, also known as pneumococcus. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a very serious disease that causes as estimate of 170,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. It is spread by coughing, sneezing, or contact with respiratory secretions. If you have heart failure or you're 65 years of age or older, you should receive the pneumococcal vaccine unless there are medical reasons against doing so. Pneumococcal vaccine is very good at preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death, however it does not guaranteed prevention of all symptoms in all people.
CDC recommendations on Adult Immunizations for people with chronic conditions
