IMMUNIZATIONS
1. Tetanus (combined with
whooping cough/pertussis as of 2007)
Booster every 10 years
2. Flu shot
Every fall (mid-October to late
December). Should be given to all over 65 years, or with chronic problems
such as asthma, heart disease, or any lung disease. For maximal
effectiveness, it should be given before the second week of December.
3. Pneumonia Shot
Given to people over age 65 or with certain chronic
diseases (e.g. asthma, emphysema, diabetes, congestive heart failure, etc.).
4. MMR (Measles, mumps, and rubella)
Given to young children.
Booster needed as a late teen if born after 1957.
5. Hepatitis B
Given to anyone at risk to contact blood
products. Since Hepatitis B can be transmitted sexually, the injection is
recommended for all young people (often given by pediatricians).
6. Hepatitis A
Given to anyone
traveling to an endemic area
(i.e. underdeveloped countries).
7. Meningitis vaccine
Given to people living in crowded areas, e.g.
military barracks or college dormitories.
8. Shingles Vaccine (Zostavax)
Given to adults over age 60 who have never had shingles. Note that this is a "live virus" so it is possible to give the virus to someone with a compromised immune system (infants, pregnant women, people with HIV or cancer chemotherapy).