Vaccination is an effective way to protect human health against various diseases. Many of these diseases have plagued previous generations and were fatal before vaccine discoveries and medication. Without vaccination, these illnesses can still be harmful to one’s health. Hence, adults are still recommended to get vaccinated against them to prevent serious diseases and costly medical treatments. 

While there are many treatments and medications available for most illnesses nowadays, you wouldn’t risk that you and your family may contract such illnesses. Thus, medical experts recommend adults take preventive vaccines that would help protect them from these diseases. 

If you care for the overall health of your family, you should never think twice about taking anything that could protect you from contracting these illnesses. Here are some highly recommended vaccines for adults that you can consider: 

• Seasonal Flu Vaccine 

Influenza or flu is a contagious illness that affects the respiratory system. It can go from mild to severe and may require hospitalization for treatment. Also, flu is the leading cause of death for tens of thousands of people in the United States every year, as it can affect anyone regardless of age or health status. However, pregnant women, children, and the elderly have a higher risk of developing severe complications concerning this illness. 

The flu vaccine is essential for adults as it’s proven to prevent and reduce flu-related illnesses and hospitalizations. Also, it can help minimize the effects of flu for those who are vaccinated but still get infected. It’s recommended that adults age 19 and above get yearly flu vaccines for adequate protection. 

• Pertussis Vaccination (TDAP) 

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a respiratory disease that causes prolonged coughing fits, vomiting, and exhaustion. This illness is similar to common colds, with fever, runny nose, and mild cough symptoms. However, the coughing can worsen over time and last up to 10 weeks or longer. 

The severity of symptoms may vary depending on the patient, including severe coughing and difficulty breathing. Patients can experience serious complications such as urinary incontinence, pneumonia, sleep deprivation, and excessive weight loss in extreme cases. Some may also suffer from rib fractures due to forceful and prolonged coughing. 

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (TDAP) vaccine are recommended for adults who have never received a dose of this vaccine, and a booster shot of tetanus-diphtheria (TD) vaccine every 10 years. 

• Hepatitis B 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States recommend the hepatitis B vaccine must be administered to adults aged 19 up to 59 years old as adequate protection against the disease of the same name. The hepatitis B vaccine can help prevent cirrhosis, cancer, and other illnesses that harm the liver. This vaccine is also recommended for those particularly susceptible to the disease, as it can be transmitted in various ways, such as sexual contact or percutaneous and per mucosal exposures. 

With this in mind, anyone who wishes to get protection from hepatitis B should be vaccinated without the need to disclose their risk factors. However, some hospitals may suggest blood testing depending on the patient’s medical history. 

• Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) 

Human papillomavirus can be transmitted through sexual contact and cause infection. Some illnesses attributed to this virus are cervical cancer, genital warts, and other less common cancers in the penis, vagina and vulva, throat, anus, neck, and head. It’s also considered one of the most common types of sexually-transmitted diseases, though it doesn’t have symptoms and can go undetected for long periods. 

Since human papillomavirus is easily spread through sexual contact, it’s recommended for adults to get HPV vaccination to avoid serious complications. It’s also highly suggested that women get vaccinated, as this virus can cause cervical cancer. However, an HPV vaccine doesn’t protect women against all viruses that cause cancer to the cervix. Hence, it’s still recommended that they get screened regularly and use sexual protection as needed.

• Shingles Vaccine 

Shingle is a viral infection that causes blisters around the torso. These rashes can be very painful and cause significant discomfort, making the skin itchy and sensitive to the touch. Some patients also experience fever, headache, fatigue, and light sensitivity. 

While shingles aren’t life-threatening, they can trigger serious complications such as postherpetic neuralgia, which can cause prolonged pain to the afflicted area. Doctors recommend getting shingles vaccine for healthy adults aged 50 and above to prevent this condition. 

The vaccine won’t eliminate your risk of contracting the infection, but it’s proven effective in reducing its severity and minimizes the risk for further complications. Also, the shingles vaccine is designed to prevent the disease. In this sense, it’s not intended to be used as a cure for those already afflicted. 

• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) 

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) protects the body against invasive pneumococcal diseases. Some examples of these are pneumonia, sepsis, bacteremia, and meningitis. This vaccine is highly recommended for adults between 19 to 64 years old who have chronic medical conditions like heart or lung diseases or leukemia. 

Furthermore, those who have a history of alcohol misuse and cigarette smoking may benefit from this vaccine, depending on the doctor’s recommendations. In general, PPSV23 is recommended for adults aged 65 and above. 

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) 

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine helps protect the respiratory system against pneumonia and serious pneumococcal disease. This vaccine is recommended for adults with a cerebrospinal fluid leak, cochlear implant, or pre-existing autoimmune conditions. Also, PCV13 is recommended to be taken a year before PPSV23 vaccination for adults aged 65 and above.

Conclusion 

Vaccinations for adults may help fight diseases and allow you to protect your livelihood and loved ones. Severe illnesses may entail medical expenses and time off work, affecting your income. Also, some diseases can be contagious and may harm members of your household who are unprotected or susceptible to infections. Thus, getting vaccinated against these ailments is also an effective way to protect your family’s health. 

When selecting a vaccine, it’s essential to consult with your doctor first to ensure that it’s suitable for your current health status. Some vaccines may not be recommended for those with pre-existing medical conditions, which is why it’s vital to check with your doctor first to prevent adverse reactions.