It’s Fall, It’s Time to Get Vaccinated
It’s that time of year when we should focus on getting vaccinated -- and these days, it’s more than just getting your flu shot. It seems to me that not too many years ago, in the fall, all I needed to do was to go get my flu shot. Times have changed. Besides the flu, the fall is a good time to be protected from the latest strain of COVID-19, RSV (a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms), and pneumonia. While you’re getting these vaccines this fall, you can also check on whether you need the two shingles shots and even check on your Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis). You can go here to find out what immunizations you need depending on your age. I know that’s a lot of stuff to keep track of, but there are always ways to make it simpler.
Your doctor is always a good source to get your immunization records. In the past I recommended keeping a vaccination card where you could manually track your vaccine history. We all got much more acquainted with a vaccine card when COVID-19 hit. Here’s something that I found out as I have worked to keep up with my vaccinations. A pharmacy close to my house became the place I go to get vaccinated. They looked up my name and went through some security stuff, and, like magic, they had my immunization history. It’s where I found out that I needed the Tdap shot. It was a great way for me to quickly find out what I needed. They aren’t going to send me reminders, so I still need to be proactive on following up, like when I need to get my second shingles shot, but it’s really handy. These records are regulated by your state so you can check on your state’s website to find out what vaccination tracking they support. California has a great app that its citizens can use to track their immunizations. For veterans, you can get your immunization records by using their My HealtheVet page online. Whatever the case, it is still up to you to be your own health advocate and get immunized, and remember, these vaccines are covered under Medicare and are free. You can find a pharmacy near you that does vaccinations by going here
I do want to say a few things about the COVID-19 vaccine. It seems there’s less excitement about getting the current COVID-19 booster and even some misleading information going around about the booster itself. Let me say, without any reservation, that it is very important for older Americans to get the latest booster. Here are some great reasons.
If you have never received a COVID-19 vaccine – Now is the time to change your ways and get the protection you need.
If you are 65 or older – The older you are, the less able your body is to battle disease. 81% of the COVID deaths were people over 65 years old.
If you are at high risk for severe or long-term COVID-19 – There are many health issues that increase the risk that COVID-19 will have an increased and longer-lasting impact on you. A few of these are cancer, chronic kidney, liver, and lung disease, and anything that has weakened your immune system. There are many other conditions that impact your response to COVID. Your doctor is the best source for determining your personal risk.
If you are living in a long-term care facility – The history of the COVID epidemic has shown that these facilities were the most susceptible to spreading the virus.
If you are in frequent contact with older people – None of us want to be the conveyer of the virus to a high-risk friend or relative.
I have no doubt that getting the latest COVID vaccine is the right thing to do. However, some rumors and theories have been going around that have discouraged some from getting vaccinated. Here is the truth about some of the rumors.
Getting vaccinated is less risky than just getting the disease.
There are no unhealthy ingredients in the vaccine.
The vaccines do not increase the number of variants.
The vaccines don’t affect fertility.
Your DNA is not altered in any way by the vaccine.
The vaccine does not contain any microchips, and they don’t make you magnetic.
Since the pandemic began, there has been an increase in the number of people who haven’t received any of the COVID-19 vaccines. Back in 2021, 1 in 5 had not been vaccinated. These unvaccinated people fell into 3 groups: vaccine-hesitant, vaccine refusers, and so-called “anti-vaxxers.” It is important to understand that the first two groups may still change their minds, so it is imperative that we don’t label all of these as anti-vaxxers. If someone you know falls into one of these groups, it might help if you guide them to sources that they trust to answer their questions. Arguing and belittling their position is not the solution; convincing them that you value their friendship and their opinion but want them to be healthy is much more effective. We all should recognize that getting the COVID vaccine is no different than any other life improving and even lifesaving health procedure.
Innovations in vaccines are growing, and the future points to vaccines that can treat diseases, including cancer and autoimmune deficiencies. It is important that you get vaccinated this fall season to take advantage of one of the most effective methods for disease prevention.
Best, Thair