Vaccines for Adults: 6 Vaccinations That Boost Immunity and Keep You Safe

Posted on: Apr 3, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Vaccines for Adults: 6 Vaccinations That Boost Immunity and Keep You Safe

Illustration of a person receiving a vaccination shot

The transformation of a child to becoming an adult changes the priority list drastically. Immunity is a factor that remains equally important in both the child and adult. The process of vaccination prepares our immune system to fight against pathogens and absolve us from harmful infections and diseases. This process must also be repeated as an adult because the immunity decreases over time, and restoring it with vaccines is necessary. It is also economically feasible because many health insurance policies provides coverage for vaccines.

Importance of adult vaccines on quality of life

Our body is vulnerable to unknown diseases, and a weak immune system can promote serious illnesses. To safeguard ourselves and fight against foreign bacteria, adult vaccination is important for:

1. Restoring immunity:

The impact of childhood vaccination fades over time, so adult vaccination aids in maintaining the strength of the immune system.

2. Protecting population:

The herd community is a concept where the adults take the vaccination and do not let the disease spread in the masses. This reduces the vulnerability of the population.

3. Preventing Serious Illnesses:

Many diseases can be severe in adults, leading to complications like pneumonia, hospitalisation, and even death. Vaccination reduces the risk of experiencing the potentially devastating consequences.

4. Minimise healthcare cost:

Vaccines are a cost-effective measure for protection as they are generally covered under individual health insurance. Moreover, reducing the chances of having a harmful infection saves the cost of treatments and medicines.

5. Peace of Mind:

Knowing you're vaccinated provides peace of mind. You can travel confidently, participate in social activities, and interact with people without worrying about contracting preventable diseases.

The points mentioned above are the primary reasons for considering adult vaccination. It will make your immune system responsive against infections and diseases, keeping you and your family safe.

It is important to note that vaccines are prescribed based on age and health conditions. It is necessary to consult with a health professional and choose the right individual health insurance plan before injecting any vaccine.

Essential vaccines for adults

Based on the health status, body requirement, and age, the doctor recommends a specific vaccination to fight any pathogen. Mentioned below is a list of vaccines that are necessary for adults:

1. Flu vaccine

The influenza virus, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that causes fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, and respiratory problems. The flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent it and its complications. It is reformulated annually to target the most prevalent symptoms in a particular season.

2. Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal disease is an infection that causes pneumonia, especially in older adults and people with chronic health conditions. People with heart disease, lung disease, asthma, diabetes, or kidney problems should take the pneumococcal vaccine. It is also prescribed for people who smoke regularly. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines:

• Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine

• Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine

3. Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

Tdap is a combinational vaccine that shields the body from Tetanus (bacterial infection), diphtheria (breathing problem), and Pertussis (respiratory problem). It is recommended for adults, with a booster dose every 10 years. Pregnant women should also receive a Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their newborns from whooping cough.

4. Hepatitis A Vaccine

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) causes Hepatitis A which is a liver infection. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). This vaccine is recommended for people who are travellers, work with HAV-infected individuals, abuse drugs, and have liver disease.

5. Covid-19 Vaccine

Individuals who are older than 65 years should get the vaccine along with a booster dose. The coronavirus promotes illness, makes the body tired, reduces energy levels, and stimulates fever. In acute cases, it can also cause breathing problems, which can turn out to be fatal. The age range for the COVID-19 vaccine starts from children 5 years of age to all adults.

6. Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B can spread through bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). This vaccine is recommended for people who have sex with more than one partner or healthcare workers, come in regular contact with HIV-infected people, consume drugs, and have kidney disease.

Vaccine requirements depend on factors like season, body health, etc. This is a list of the major diseases that adults can be diagnosed with, which can lead to serious health issues and sometimes death. So, it is unavoidable for adults to get vaccinated to strengthen their immune systems. It is also important to choose an insurer offering extensive health insurance to make the process cost-efficient.

Conclusion

Adult vaccinations are not a one-time event; they are essential to maintaining good health throughout life. Staying up-to-date on recommended vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of serious illnesses, protect the people around us, and contribute to a healthier community. Talk to your doctor today to review your immunisation records and develop a personalised vaccination plan. By taking this proactive step we can assure the well-being of ourselves and those around us. You can even get support through insurance and get vaccinated without worrying about the expenses.

Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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