If you thought you were too old to be vaccinated, you really need to think again. Most people think that immunization is only meant for kids due to their low immunity. This is far from the truth. Medical experts argue that the immunity of an adult takes a dive as age catches up with an individual. Vaccination should therefore not be taken lightly because ignorance can send you to the grave before the end of your lifespan.
Research has proved that there are more than 600,000 people who lose their lives due to illnesses that can be remedied through vaccination. Immunization gives you an edge when diseases strike because your body is already protected. Besides that, why should you treat a disease that can be prevented in the first place?. Below are the 4 major vaccinations that every adult should get.
- Flu
Flu is caused by a virus and that’s why it’s hard to treat it with common drugs. The best strategy of staying safe from this disease is to get immunized in advance. Vaccination actually narrows the chances of contracting Flu and even if you get it by any chance, it won’t last long. In fact, it will not affect you that much to an extent of not being able to carry on with your daily routine.
You should get the vaccination every year because the virus evolves to become resistant to a drug that has been used many times. Furthermore, the immunization is highly recommended for all adults, especially those that are above the age of 65.
- Tdap
Tdap vaccine protects you against three possible diseases namely tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (also known as whooping cough).These diseases are capable of killing you within a few days. There are actually millions of people that died from tetanus and diphtheria 4 decades ago because there were no vaccines.
Immunization has helped in reducing deaths caused by these diseases to 10%. The immunization is ideal for all people including expectant mothers because it helps in protecting the unborn baby. The vaccination is also administered to newborns within the first few weeks after arrival. You should also be vaccinated if you have a wound just to counter the potential attack.
- Hepatitis A and B
These deadly diseases are caused by viruses that mainly affect the lungs. It’s estimated that about 3000 people lose their lives due to these illnesses every year. The good thing is that a single shot will keep you safe for 25 years. Gay men and people who abuse drugs are highly vulnerable to hepatitis.
The vaccine is also ideal for business people that travel around the world. Regardless of whether you are going on holiday or work related reasons, you should get the shot before flying out. This is because the disease is contagious. In fact, the management personnel of most international airports are required by law to only allow visitors that have been vaccinated against these illnesses.
- HPV
The abbreviation stands for Human Papillomavirus disease. Just like the name suggests, the illness is caused by a virus. Research has found the virus to be the major trigger of cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers in ladies. And penile cancer in guys. Some cases of throat cancer, genital warts and anal cancer have been linked to HPV.
The vaccine is recommended for teenagers that are above 12 years. However, the vaccine is not suitable for expectant mothers. The vaccine is administered in three doses. You should have the second dose after the lapse of 2 months and then get the last shot in the sixth month from the date you had the first dose.
