Exploring the Benefits of Vaccinations and Immunizations for Adults

If you think only infants and kids need vaccinations, you are highly mistaken. Vaccines and immunization are equally important for adults as well. With proper immunization, millions of lives are saved annually.

Vaccines minimize the risks of diseases and infections by working with the natural defense system of the body and building protection against pathogens and other harmful microorganisms.

As per World Health Organization, there are vaccines for preventing more than 20 life-threatening illnesses. It has been possible to prevent almost 3.5 to 5 million deaths annually from various diseases like influenza, measles, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and many more with the help of immunizations.

Understanding Adult Vaccinations – Why Are Vaccinations Important?

Adult vaccination is as important as child vaccination. To remain protected from various diseases, adults must take proper vaccines at the right time. Various factors are taken into consideration for adult vaccination, like medical conditions, age, prior vaccination history, occupation, travel, lifestyle, etc.

Many of us don’t know, but vaccine protection wears off for some diseases over a period of time. Pneumococcal diseases, including flu, are the most common examples in this regard. Booster doses for such diseases are mandatory to remain protected. Adults must maintain a vaccination chart and make sure that they are updated with their immunizations.

Health Benefits of Adult Vaccinations

There are innumerable benefits of vaccinations for adults. Some of them are:

1. Reduces risks of complications and hospitalization
   One of the greatest benefits of immunization for adults is that it helps in minimizing complications from any disease and reduces the chances of hospitalization for patients. This is highly applicable to elderly adults and people with comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, cancer, and so on.
2. Helps in reducing risks for new and different illnesses
   It is a fact that new and different diseases are popping up with every passing day. Adults might be exposed to such diseases because of their age, compromised immune system, lifestyle, travel, and even job. With proper vaccinations, adults can combat new diseases. Even if they are affected, the effects are not severe.
3. Offers protection to you and others around you
   When you are vaccinated, it not only protects you but also protects people who are around you. This is highly applicable to contagious diseases. You are less likely to spread pathogens that can adversely affect others. This protection is known as community or herd immunity, where one adult vaccination also offers protection to the people around that person.
4. Most of the vaccines are completely safe
   Adults can be confident that the recommended immunizations are completely safe as vaccine safety is monitored and a matter of high priority. Some people experience mild side effects, which go away naturally in a day or two. The effects of vaccines are way milder against the diseases they protect from.

Also read: Taking Control of Your Health: The Benefits of Preventative Care

Immunizations for Travel and Workplace – Why Are They Important?

If your job requires traveling to various international locations, you will need appropriate vaccines and immunization for the same. Vaccination requirements vary from one country to another, and you must check the information regarding the same thoroughly before the travel plan.

Not having the right vaccination certificate might cancel your visa application and delay other approval procedures.

There are also occupational immunizations for specific industries. Some of the common vaccines usually required for traveling as well as for jobs include:

1. Influenza
2. Pneumococcal and meningococcal
3. Hepatitis B
4. Measles
5. BCG
6. Chicken Pox
7. Hepatitis A
8. Whooping Cough
9. Tetanus
10. Rubella, etc.

Vaccination and Chronic Disease Management

Chronic medical conditions are common in elderly adults. For instance, many elderly patients suffer from chronic cough and cold, pain and inflammation, and similar issues. Chronic disease management becomes easier with vaccinations.

For instance, a patient with chronic cough and cold problems must take the influenza and pneumococcal vaccine as recommended by the physician. This vaccination minimizes the chances of the disease and, even if infected, reduces disease exacerbations. Simply put, immunizations minimize complications and risks of hospitalization.

Related: Why Is the Flu Shot Important? Know The Reasons and Their Benefits

Vaccine Myths Debunked

There are many myths related to adult vaccination. Some of them are as follows:

1. Vaccines are not needed for healthy adults
2. Vaccines are for kids only
3. Vaccines are for the elderly and old people
4. I don’t need an adult vaccine as I was vaccinated in childhood
5. Vaccines are not effective in adults
6. Adults need only the flu vaccine

All these myths are just that - myths. Like kids, adults also need vaccination from time to time to remain healthy and stay protected from various diseases and illnesses. Some of the common adult vaccinations include pneumococcal, meningococcal, influenza, hepatitis B, DPT, typhoid, and chicken pox. These vaccines are safe and offer disease protection to quite an extent.

Prioritize Your Health with Newnan Family Medicine

Now that you know why vaccinations are important and the benefits of vaccinations for adults, you must schedule your vaccinations on time.

To remain healthy and stay away from preventable diseases, prioritize your immunization needs, and Newnan Family Medicine Associates, P.C. is your one-stop destination for finding the most reliable healthcare provider who can guide you with immunization updates, annual physical check-ups, vaccination details as well as for scheduling timely adult vaccinations.

To understand the benefits of immunization and the importance of regular check-ups, visit Newnan Family Medicine Associates, P.C. today!