Currently, vaccines play an important role in preventing and reducing the chances of disease. However, we often associate vaccines only with children, which is not true. Adults should also receive vaccines to prevent various diseases that commonly occur in adulthood or old age. Receiving vaccines not only helps prevent and reduce the chances of disease but also lowers the risk of suffering pain and incurring high treatment costs.
Types of Vaccines
Vaccines can be classified based on their production method or the pathogens used. Generally, they are divided into 3 types:
- Toxoid: Toxoid toxins produced from bacteria, such as tetanus. This involves using the toxin to produce the vaccine without directly using the pathogen.
- Inactivated Pathogen: The pathogen is killed first, then parts of it are used to produce the vaccine, such as hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, and influenza virus.
- Live Attenuated Pathogen: The pathogen is weakened to be easily eliminated when injected into the body. However, vaccines with live pathogens require caution because certain groups, such as those on immunosuppressive drugs, chemotherapy, or steroids, may have low immunity and could experience side effects. Therefore, doctors must always take a medical history before vaccination.
Vaccines Adults and Elderly Should Receive
| Age Group | Recommended Vaccines | Appropriate Timing and Booster Shots |
|---|---|---|
(Age 19-26) |
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(Age 27-65) |
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(Age 50 and above) |
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*Vaccination cannot replace cervical cancer screening
**Two doses, 6-12 months apart
Dr. Worasert Isaratham
Specialist in Endocrinology and Metabolism
Diabetes and Endocrine Center, Phyathai 1 Hospital
