August is National Immunization Awareness Month and is observed annually to highlight the importance of staying up to date on recommended vaccinations for people of all ages. The vaccine schedule is not just for children! Vaccines are safe and effective at protecting you and your family against serious diseases like flu, pneumonia, shingles, whooping cough, and cancers from HPV. For most immunizations, mild pain or swelling at the injection site is common.
🔸 Flu shots are given annually to all eligible patients 6 months and older. It takes up to two weeks to reach peak effectiveness. The flu shot DOES NOT cause the flu!
🔸 Pneumonia vaccination is routinely recommended for adults age 65 or older. This is a two shot series which much be completed for maximum effectiveness. People under the age of 65 with high risk medical conditions may also need pneumonia vaccines.
🔸 Shingles vaccination is routinely recommended for healthy adults over the age of 50. The newest shingles vaccine is a two shot series that should be completed within 6 months for maximum effectivenes.
🔸HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for all adolescents (male and female) age 11-12 years (can start at age 9) and through age 18 years if not previously vaccinated. This is a two or three shot series.
Four Key Messages from the CDC:
- You have the power to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Vaccines are safe and effective at preventing serious diseases.
- Getting vaccines at the recommended time is the best way to protect against serious diseases.
- Vaccine-preventable diseases are still a threat. Vaccination is the best protection.
If you have questions or would like a session with one of our consultant pharmacists to discuss your immunization status, schedule an appointment https://bit.ly/2YZLHOE.