Hey flourishing friends!
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and it's a fantastic reminder that staying healthy isn't just about kale smoothies and morning jogs. It's also about keeping ourselves protected from preventable diseases through vaccinations!
But here's the thing: many people think vaccines are just for kids. Not true! Our bodies' immunity weakens as we age, making us more susceptible to illnesses. That's why staying up to date on adult vaccinations is crucial for flourishing throughout life.
Here's the good news: figuring out which vaccines you need is easier than ever. The CDC's awesome Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool (https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/downloads/adult/adult-combined-schedule.pdf) lets you enter your age and health conditions to see which vaccinations are recommended for you.
Let's break down some of the important vaccines for adults:
Flu vaccine: This annual shot protects against seasonal influenza viruses, preventing serious illness and even death.
Pneumococcal vaccine: This vaccine shields you from pneumococcal disease, which can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections.
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap): This vaccine guards against tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).
Hepatitis A and B vaccines: These vaccines protect your liver from potentially life-threatening viruses contracted through contaminated food or water (Hep A) or bodily fluids (Hep B).
HPV vaccine: This vaccine helps prevent certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer and other cancers.
MMR vaccine: This vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, all highly contagious diseases.
Chickenpox vaccine: If you never had chickenpox as a child, this vaccine can prevent you from getting it as an adult (which is much worse!).
Shingles vaccine: This vaccine helps prevent shingles, a painful condition that can develop after having chickenpox.
Remember, vaccinations are about protecting yourself and those around you. By staying up to date on your shots, you're not just flourishing yourself, but also contributing to a healthier community.
So, head over to the CDC's Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool, check what you might be missing, and schedule an appointment with your doctor. Let's all make this National Immunization Month one where we prioritize lifelong health!
Cheerfully yours,
Kayla Myers
#NationalImmunizationMonth #NIAM #vaccineswork #publichealth #wellness #preventablediseases #adults #healthcare #ChooseHealth #OperationFlourish
P.S. Take charge of your health! Visit the CDC's Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool to see which vaccines you might need: link to the CDC tool. Then, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your needs!
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