While many adults receive annual flu shots, they tend to ignore other important vaccinations, simply because they are unaware that they may need them. This article provides a brief overview of some of the other vaccinations adults may     require. Please consult your MKMG physician to see if you are an appropriate candidate for one of the following adult vaccines.

Influenza Vaccine

Annual flu shots are highly recommended for all adults ages 65 and older. They are also a good idea for younger adults who have chronic disorders of the pulmonary or cardiovascular systems, such as asthma, as well as patients with diabetes, kidney dysfunction or immunosuppression.

Others who should consider receiving the vaccination include people who work in health care facilities, and household members of persons in high risk groups. In general, the vaccine should be given to any adult who wishes to reduce the likelihood of catching the flu.

Side effects of the vaccine are minimal and may include injection site soreness, transient fever, muscle aches, and malaise that may last one or two days. The influenza vaccine should not be given to those who are allergic to eggs, nor to pregnant women in their first trimester. Pregnant women in their second or third trimester can safely get the vaccine.

Pneumonia Vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccine protects against a very serious bacterial cause of pneumonia. This bacterium causes about 50% of all pneumonia cases; therefore, it is still possible to contract pneumonia after successful immunization with the pneumonia vaccine. It is recommended for all adults ages 65 and older, as well as younger adults who have the underlying conditions mentioned previously as risk factors for influenza.

The pneumonia vaccine is usually given once at age 65 or older, but may be given again at age 65 to previously vaccinated individuals, if more than five years have elapsed since the prior dose. Consult your physician to determine if you are a candidate for pneumonia vaccine. Side effects are relatively mild, and may include injection-site soreness. Pregnant women with high risk conditions may receive the vaccine after the first trimester.

Tetanus and Diptheria Toxoid

Any adult who has not completed a primary series of immunizations as a child should receive an initial tetanus and diptheria toxoid vaccine. Pregnant women may be given this vaccine if necessary. Soreness of the injection site is the most common side effect. Additional booster shots are necessary every ten years throughout life. Patients suffering an acute wound or laceration should check with their doctor to see if a booster is needed, as should adults who are injured and whose last shot was administered more than five years ago.

Lyme Disease Vaccine

Lyme vaccine is one of the newest immunizations available, and everyone living in Westchester and Putnam counties should consider receiving it. This includes those who have already contracted Lyme disease. The vaccination involves a three-shot primary series, followed by booster shots in future years. The Lyme disease vaccine is FDA-approved for use in patients ages 15-70. Transient injection-site soreness, muscle aches, and malaise are possible side effects. This vaccine cannot cause Lyme disease, as there are no bacteria present in the formulation.

Hepatitis A & B Vaccines

Hepatitis A vaccination is needed for those traveling to high risk regions of the world, as well as persons with underlying liver disease. It is also effective for those who may have recently been exposed to the virus. Adults require an initial vaccination followed by a second dose 6-12 months later, for lasting immunity. Hepatitis B vaccine is now routinely given to children, and is indicated for adults who have chronic liver disease, work in a health care setting, or are in contact with persons who are chronically infected. It involves a three-shot series given over six months. There are few adverse reactions, the most common being soreness of the injection site.

Other Vaccines

Other vaccines which may be recommended for adults include those for polio, measles-mumps-rubella, and rabies (we administer the rabies vaccine in cooperation with the Westchester and Putnam County health departments).

Your MKMG physician can also administer travel immunizations and prophylaxis for those visiting high risk regions of the world. For vaccination information on your specific destination, visit the Center for Disease Control on the internet at www.cdc.gov.