Stay Healthy by Staying Current on Your Vaccinations

Immunizations are the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and those around you from infectious diseases. There is a lot of information regarding immunizations, and you and your loved ones may have questions. That’s where your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) can help you. As a doctor, I know how important vaccines are for preventive care and as a key component of your overall wellness and they can be especially important if you have a chronic health condition such as heart failure, diabetes or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

How vaccines work

Immunizations allow you to develop an immunity to a disease. By imitating the infection on a very small scale, vaccines trigger your immune system response that builds protection. Vaccines work by helping the body's immune system recognize and remember specific pathogens, such as the viruses or bacteria that cause the flu or pneumonia and can quickly destroy them before you fall ill. Since vaccines contain inactivated or weakened forms of the pathogens, they do not put you at risk of the disease or its complications.

When should you get vaccinated

Sharing your vaccination history with your primary care doctor or APP will allow them to create a personalized immunization plan specific to you. Here are three things you can do to get you or your loved one caught up on vaccinations.

• Speak with your doctor or APP to stay up to date on vaccinations. If you haven’t received the recommended vaccines for your age group, or you can’t remember which vaccines you’ve already received or when, then talk with your doctor or APP to review your medical history and develop a vaccination plan. This personalized immunization plan will align with your needs, age and health status.
• Schedule an appointment. Schedule an appointment with your doctor or APP at a time that works best for you to get your vaccinations. Depending on your age, medical condition, or other unique circumstances such as upcoming travel abroad, you may need to schedule more than a single visit to get all your necessary vaccinations.
• Reduce common and potential side effects. Small-scale side effects after immunizations are completely normal. You can address potential discomfort by avoiding strenuous activity for one to two days and keeping light movement in your arm. You may prefer to get a vaccination in your non-dominant arm. Be sure to drink plenty of water before and after you receive your immunization(s) to help counter possible fatigue.

Which vaccinations should you get

There is no one answer to this question as immunization schedules vary depending on your age, health status, and other factors. For example, vaccinations you receive in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood may vary greatly. Therefore, it is important to speak with your doctor or APP to make sure you get the right vaccinations on the right schedule.

As we age, our immune systems can weaken, making us more susceptible to diseases and infections. That is why the following 5 vaccinations are recommended for people over the age of 65 as a crucial part of maintaining their health and preventing illness.

1. Influenza (flu) vaccine
2. Pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine
3. COVID-19 vaccine
4. Tdap (tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis) vaccine
5. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine

Immunizations are a vital component in helping to keep you healthy as they protect you against serious diseases and boost your immunity. So talk to your doctor or APP today to see which vaccines are right for you and stay up-to-date with your immunizations to enjoy a healthier life.

 *An advanced practice provider is defined as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.