Vaccinations

Vaccinations Articles

Do I need a shingles vaccine booster?

The shingles vaccine becomes less effective over time, but currently there is no approved booster shot available. To ensure protection at the time of greatest risk, people should get the vaccine at age 60 or older. (Locked) More »

Is it too late to get a flu shot?

The best time to get an annual flu shot is in mid-October. However, it’s not too late to get the shot in December, since people are still at risk of getting flu for several more months. (Locked) More »

Pneumonia vaccines for adults

  One of the leading health dangers for older adults is pneumonia. It is the most common cause of hospital admissions after childbirth. In fact, adults age 65 and older have a higher risk of death from pneumonia hospitalization than any other reason. More »

Vaccination roundup

Vaccines help protect against common and sometimes vicious illnesses, such as influenza, pneumonia, and shingles. An annual flu shot is considered a “must” for older adults, especially those with heart disease. Two different pneumococcal vaccines, which protect against pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis, are recommended for adults 65 and older. The shingles vaccine is recommended for anyone 50 or older. A potentially more effective shingles vaccine is still in development and not yet available.  (Locked) More »

What can you do to improve your immune system?

Your immune system is on the job around the clock to protect you from infectious bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause disease, suffering, and death. The immune system is an extremely complex network of cells and molecules that researchers are still working to understand. Because there is so much about immune function that remains unknown, immune system myths abound and commercial enterprise have exploited them. The following are three common immune system myths. Immune system myth #1: The more active your immune system is, the healthier you will be. More »

3 things you can do about shingles

Vaccination can prevent or minimize shingles. Immediate treatment with antiviral medications can relieve the symptoms, and tricyclic antidepressants can treat any long-lasting pain or itching. (Locked) More »