Vaccinations in older peopleI know people over 65 with chronic illnesses should get the flu jab, but what if you're over that age but are in good health? Should you still get it?
Influenza is a serious illness especially for older people. And the statistics show that those over 65 and those with chronic illness such as lung, heart or kidney diseases, diabetes or any condition which suppresses the immune system are especially at risk.
Flu is not only serious but can be fatal.
So every effort should be made to avoid getting it. The best way to do this is to get the flu jab.
The influenza vaccine is very effective in reducing infection and helps avoid hospitalisation and even death. It is also recommended that those who work in the healthcare profession should also be vaccinated.
Should I also get the jab for pneumonia?
Pneumonia is also a serious illness for those over 65. Last year there were 2,319 admissions to hospital as a result of the disease and there were 293 deaths due to pneumococcal pneumonia.
The pneumococcal vaccination protects against pneumococcal disease which, in addition to causing pneumonia, can also cause septicaemia and meningitis. The Department of Health recommends that all those over 65 and those with chronic health problems such as diabetes, heart, lung, liver or renal problems, and those with sickle cell disease should get the jab. The pneumococcal vaccination is available from your GP and is free to those who hold a medical card.
Can I get flu or pneumonia from the vaccinations? And why do I have to get one every year?
No, contrary to popular belief you can't get flu or pneumonia from the vaccines as they do not contain live forms of the diseases.
The reason why you have to get re-vaccinated every year as the new vaccine is prepared annually using various strains of the disease that are most likely to be circulating in the coming season.
Protection lasts for about a year so re-vaccination on an annual basis is necessary.
The best time to get your jabs is during September and October. So make an appointment with your doctor today to get yours.