When it comes to vaccines, we generally think of vaccines for newborns to adolescents or the flu vaccine for all ages that is commonly administered. But did you know… there are many other diseases for which vaccination is suitable for adults and the elderly, effectively reducing the risk of disease, such as:
- Shingles vaccine
Shingles occurs more frequently with age. The older you get, the easier it is to develop complications. Elderly people with shingles experience more severe and longer-lasting pain than younger individuals. The best prevention is to get one dose of the shingles vaccine for those aged 50 and above to reduce the risk of shingles.
- Pneumococcal vaccine (pneumonia)
People aged 65 and older are at high risk of severe pneumonia infection, which can cause bloodstream infections and meningitis, leading to disability or death. Therefore, vaccination against pneumonia is the best preventive option, starting with one dose of the 13-valent vaccine followed by the 23-valent vaccine, with a one-year interval between doses.
- Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus vaccine
Currently, the mortality rate from diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus is increasing. One dose of the tetanus vaccine can help reduce illness and prevent tetanus in the elderly, as well as protect against diphtheria and pertussis.
- Influenza vaccine
Influenza in the elderly is more severe and causes more complications than in the general population. Therefore, the best prevention is to get vaccinated annually, once a year, from the late rainy season to the winter season, to reduce the risk of disease and infection.
These are just some of the vaccines that can be administered to help prevent diseases that may occur in the future. Those who wish to get vaccinated should consult a specialist doctor before vaccination for history taking, physical examination, and advice on indications and contraindications of each vaccine to ensure maximum benefit and safety from vaccination.
Dr. Worasert Isaratham
Specialist in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Metabolism
Diabetes and Endocrine Center, Phyathai 1 Hospital
