The Importance of Catch-Up Vaccinations for Adults and Adolescents
Many people assume vaccinations are a childhood concern, but public health experts emphasize the critical role they play in protecting adults and adolescents, particularly those with pre-existing chronic conditions. Beyond preventing serious illness, vaccines can also mitigate the worsening or recurrence of existing health issues.
■ Respiratory Viral Infections: flu, Coronavirus, RSV
Dr. Tina Tan,past president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA),stresses the importance of flu vaccination for individuals managing chronic medical conditions. Contracting the flu can exacerbate these conditions and lead to further complications. A 2020 study confirmed higher rates of severe flu infections among adults with congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, diabetes, and kidney disease.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older. Experts also advise those with chronic conditions to receive both the coronavirus and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccines. Research, including a UK study of 46 million adults, has shown a correlation between coronavirus vaccination and a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes. While the coronavirus vaccine carries a small risk of myocarditis and pericarditis (heart muscle and lining inflammation), these cases are typically mild, and the benefits of vaccination generally outweigh the risks, especially for those vulnerable to severe infection. Coronavirus vaccines are available to all ages, but the CDC recommends consulting a healthcare provider beforehand. RSV vaccination is recommended for infants, pregnant women (to protect their babies), adults aged 50-74 with chronic conditions, and all adults 75 and older.
■ Bacterial Infections: Meningitis and Pneumonia
Bacterial infections like meningitis and pneumonia pose significant threats, potentially leading to chronic disability or even death. Meningitis complications can be severe, resulting in hearing loss, vision problems, memory loss, learning difficulties, brain damage, seizures, and kidney failure if left untreated. Pneumonia can worsen existing heart and blood vessel disease and cause long-term effects like depression, as well as potential damage to the kidneys, liver, and heart due to oxygen deprivation or an adverse immune response.
Both meningitis and pneumonia can escalate to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. while prompt treatment can lead to full recovery for some sepsis patients, others experience lasting effects such as insomnia, nightmares, panic attacks, joint and muscle pain, cognitive decline, and organ failure.
fortunately,vaccines offer protection. the CDC recommends the meningococcal vaccine for all children before puberty, as well as adolescents and high-risk adults. The pneumococcal vaccine is advised for children under 5 and adults over 50 to prevent pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine also provides protection against meningitis and pneumonia.
Dr.Hopkins highlights the broader impact of vaccination, stating, “The vaccine provides important protection for those who have been vaccinated, and may also help protect some community members who have not yet been vaccinated.” He further notes that a lack of direct experience with the devastating effects of vaccine-preventable diseases can lead to an underestimation of the risks associated with remaining unvaccinated.
(By Allyson Chiu)
