Vaccinations Specialist

When should I get a pneumonia vaccine?

When you get a severe lung infection, called a pneumonia, you can become very ill. For some, the pneumonia can be deadly. Because this infection is so debilitating and can have a long recovery period, prevention is ideal. For the average healthy adult, you probably don’t need a pneumonia vaccine, but it can’t hurt to get one. You might need one if you:

• Are pregnant
• Trying to conceive
• Are over age 65
• Smoke regularly
• Have a weakened immune system
• Drink heavily
• Are recovering from surgery

Do I need to get a flu shot every year?

Yes. The strain of the flu changes every season, which runs from October through May. If you’re generally healthy, you might not need one, but it’s typically suggested for prevention. Patients who are older, pregnant, trying to conceive, or who already have a weakened immune system, should definitely consider getting an annual flu shot. While the flu can be dangerous for everyone, for patients who fit into these demographics, the flu can be deadly.

How is the flu vaccine administered?

When you think of a vaccine, you probably think of a shot going into your arm. While the flu vaccine can certainly be given this way, it can also come in a nasal spray vaccine. Whether you get an injection, or use the nasal spray, you will be equally protected and your chances of catching the flu are minimized. Either way, you only need the flu vaccine once per year, ideally at the beginning of the season.

What other vaccinations should I have?

It depends on your age and health status. Children generally need:

• Chickenpox
• Diphtheria and Pertussis (DTap)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Hepatitis A
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Rotavirus (RV)
• Pneumococcal (PCV)
• Pertussis (D

As you get older, you might require boosters for some of these childhood vaccines. You may also need a hepatitis B or tetanus shot. Certain jobs or areas of travel might require you to get additional vaccines and show proof. The staff at Gadh Family Practice can help you with all of your vaccination records and let you know when anyone in your family is due for a booster shot.