Vaccines are especially important for older adults. As you get older, your immune system weakens and it can be more difficult to fight off infections. You’re more likely to get diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and shingles — and to have complications that can lead to long-term illness, hospitalization, and even death.
The latest measles outbreak is global and half of those who contract the disease worldwide are dying from it. Seniors who have never had chickenpox or received the chickenpox vaccine are encouraged to get a preventative, two-dose regimen–except for seniors with immune deficiencies, cancer, and those on certain medications that affect the immune system. Fall is in full swing, meaning colorful foliage, delicious pumpkin treats, and—perhaps best of all—cooler weather!
The recent measles outbreak in the Pacific Northwest has sent demand for the vaccine surging. Anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated is urged to get the vaccine , but do people who have already had it. There’s been a lot of discussion in the news these days about the recent nationwide outbreak of Measles. The vaccine protects against three diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella.
MMR vaccine is given later than some other childhood vaccines because antibodies transferred from the mother to the baby can provide some protection from disease and make the MMR vaccine less effective until about year of age.