Vaccine-preventable diseases lead to significant illness, disability, hospitalization and death in the U.S., especially among older adults. The adult immunizations rate has been declining in the country, despite the serious effects that diseases that can be prevented by vaccines can have.
Vaccines serve as an important step in protecting your health and are considered the best medical defenses against a host of infectious diseases. At Imperial Center Family Medicine, we offer a full range of adult immunizations services, from vaccine education to administration and follow-up.
Vaccine Education
Imperial Center Family Medicine offers a range of resources to educate our patients on the value of adult immunizations. There is a lot of conflicting information on the internet, so we recommend that you discuss your vaccination concerns with your doctor, who can make recommendations based on your medical history.
We can help you understand how vaccines work and what side effects you may experience from a particular vaccine. Our healthcare professionals will be happy to explain why a particular vaccine has been recommended to you and how it can help. We believe in providing patients with all of the pertinent information about vaccines so they can make an informed decision about their health.
Recommended Immunizations For Adults
Here is a look at some of the top recommended immunizations for adults that we can advise on.
Influenza
For adults above the age of 60, one dose of influenzas vaccine is recommended each year. High-dose options are available for older adults.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)
If you have never had the Tdap vaccine as an adult, it may be recommended to you; those who have received the tetanus and diphtheria combined shot (Td) may need a booster every ten years.
Varicella
The varicella vaccine is recommended if you have never been vaccinated for chicken pox and have not had chicken pox or shingles in the past.
Pneumococcal
One dose of a pneumonia vaccine may be recommended for people who have certain risk factors.
HPV
Children can be protected from certain types of cancer later in life with an HPV vaccine, which is typically given around age 11 or 12.
This vaccine is recommended for everyone through age 26. However, adults aged 27 through 45 who have not already been vaccinated should discuss risk factors and benefits with their doctor before deciding.
For older adults, HPV vaccination is not considered beneficial as many people in this age range will have already been exposed to the virus.
Shingrix
Shingles is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. The individual lifetime risk of developing shingles is 1 in 3. Even the healthiest lifestyle can’t stop your immune system from declining as you age. If you want protection against shingles, a vaccine is a beneficial solution.
COVID-19
The CDC recommends that you protect yourself, your family, and your community against COVID-19 with the vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Millions of people in the United States have received COVID-19 vaccines under the most intense safety monitoring in U.S. history.
Needle Phobia
A true needle phobia can be very powerful and frightening, and it is common in people of all ages.
If a needle phobia is preventing you from getting a needed vaccine, please let our office know. Our doctors are trained in helping patients relax, and we have several strategies that can make the experience more comfortable for you so you can get the protection you need without fear.
Reach Out To Imperial Center Family Medicine For Your Adult Immunizations
Call Imperial Center Family Medicine today at 1-919-873-4437 to find out more about our adult immunizations and schedule your appointment. We are ready to talk with you about the different adult immunizations you should have and work with you through the process.