Immunizations: They Are Not Just For Kids Anymore

No one likes going to the doctor to get a shot or immunization, but it is still the best way to keep kids and adults safe from some diseases and illnesses. There are a growing number of things that people are getting immunizations for, and while most of the time we think growing to the doctor for shots happens as a child, adults, especially those in higher risk groups, are getting their fair share of going to the doctor once a year for their immunizations too.

Who Needs To be Immunized?

In general, children are still the largest group at risk, and childhood diseases can run from mild to extreme, so depending on where they live and what they are potentially exposed to, kids are always going to be the first group immunized. Building a strong immune system early is the best way to ensure kids will be healthy for years to come.

Like children, older adults are at risk for things as well. Their immune systems may be compromised by health problems and something as simple as the flu can really take a toll on older people. Because of this, there are many things they should get immunized for as well.

The third group is those people that have chronic illnesses that can make it harder for their bodies to fight off a disease. For these people, even something as simple as a mild case of the flu can be devastating to their system.

How Often Should You Be Immunized?

Depending on what the immunization is for, you might need to have a shot or several of them every year. With kids, the early immunizations can be as close together as several months, so the answer to how often someone needs shots for something is dependant on what they are getting the shots for.

Most of the time, your doctor will make a recommendation as to what you should have and when to get it, but for adults, things like the flu shot, a shingles vaccine, or even one for chickenpox can be important. Talk to your doctor, and see what they suggest.

Pharmacy Immunizations

There are a growing number of immunizations that can be given at the local pharmacy and are helpful for those people that know they need them but don't have a local doctor, don't have the insurance for a visit to the doctors, or just want to get the shots they need without taking the time for a visit to the doctor's office. Most of these shots are for things like the flu or shingles, but you might be surprised what your pharmacy offers.

If you suspect there is something you need, ask if they offer it. They might, and in many cases, insurance companies are covering these shots given at the pharmacy just like they would if you got them in the doctor's office.

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