Dr. Rotman's Featured Topic: Prevention Through Vaccination
 Many people think “getting shots” applies to children, or perhaps pets. Using a vaccine to prevent serious illness has a growing role in adult medicine. Most of us are aware of the “flu shot,” the annual autumn tradition of receiving a vaccine against several strains of the influenza virus anticipated to spread later in the season. The strongest recommendations are for those over 50years old and those with chronic health conditions to be vaccinated. The influenza vaccine is a good idea for anyone who wants to reduce their risk of contracting this debilitating illness, especially those who do not want to risk spreading the illness to others who may be frail.
“Flu shots” have been around for decades, however, there are several new vaccines that have been released in the last few years that many people may not know about. Zostavax is a vaccination that markedly reduces the risk of developing Herpes Zoster or “Shingles”, a blistering rash that can cause excruciating pain lasting for months. The current recommendation is for most everyone over the age of 60 years old to receive the vaccine once in their lifetime in order to reduce their risk by two-thirds of developing this painful complication. “Whooping Cough” or Pertussis has been on the rise for the last 20years, still causing periodic epidemics. The current goal is to vaccinate adults with a combination vaccination including a Tetanus Booster.
This fall, I would encourage all of my patients to receive an influenza vaccination. We can discuss what other vaccinations would be beneficial. In keeping with the philosophy of “prevention is better than treatment,” I would like to have all have my patients maximally protected from infectious illnesses using appropriate vaccinations. |
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