Story by: Sara Thompson on December 2, 2022
While August was national immunization awareness month, you should stay up to date on your vaccines year-round. We’ve heard a lot about COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters in the last two years, but there are other adult vaccines you need, too. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages all adults to maintain a regular vaccination schedule.
The short answer is yes.
“Vaccines help everybody,” said Monalisa Tailor, MD, Norton Community Medical Associates., a manager with Norton Immediate Care Centers. “Childhood immunizations can wear off, and you can be at risk for developing diseases based on your job, lifestyle or travel habits.”
In general, all adults need regular shots to keep them from getting and spreading the many vaccine-preventable diseases such as influenza (flu) and whooping cough (pertussis).
Vaccinations are available at your primary care provider’s office or at any of 8 Norton Prompt Care at Walgreens clinics. You also may view all your care options and schedule online.
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“Skipping vaccines means you run the risk of missing work, running up medical bills or not being well enough to care for your family,” Dr. Tailor said.
Following the recommended adult vaccine schedule helps you keep track of which shots you need to have updated and which ones can benefit you as you get older.
Choosing not to vaccinate can have a dramatic impact on you, your family and your community. In the last decade, outbreaks of preventable diseases have risen dramatically.
“As we’ve been experiencing with COVID-19, vaccines work best when everyone does their part,” Dr. Tailor said.
“It depends on age and health status,” Dr. Tailor said. “The CDC recommends a seasonal flu vaccine, as well as a Tdap [diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis] if the person did not receive one as a child — then tetanus and diphtheria boosters every 10 years.”
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your OB-GYN about what vaccine schedule you should follow.
Select an appointment date and time from available spots listed below.