Immunization Awareness Month: What Seniors in Midland Should Know

According to the WHO, the world's first successful vaccine was created by Dr. Edward Jenner in 1796. Now, centuries later, we have a myriad of vaccines that protect us from serious illnesses and diseases.

Despite the prevalence of immunizations, there are still people who aren't fully aware of their benefits. They may not be vaccinated themselves, and this is detrimental to their health, especially if they're older adults.

Luckily, National Immunization Awareness Month is coming up, and it's the perfect time to educate yourself. Here's what seniors in Midland, TX should know in order to protect their health.

What Is National Immunization Awareness Month?

National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) happens every August and is promoted by the CDC. The main purpose of this month is to remind people of all ages to stay up-to-date on vaccines that protect against serious diseases.

This is especially important for seniors since our immune systems naturally become less effective as we age. As a result, older adults are more susceptible to illnesses, such as:

• The flu
• Pneumonia
• Shingles

Why Should You Get Vaccinated?

Not only do vaccines prevent illness, but they also reduce complications, hospitalizations, and even death. There are seasonal surges with illnesses like flu and RSV (they peak in fall and winter), so to have a fighting chance, you should prepare ahead of time.

In addition, the dry West Texas air increases susceptibility to respiratory issues, which can make the flu and RSV more dangerous. Those with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, heart conditions, or COPD) are also more vulnerable, so it's absolutely vital for seniors to get their vaccines.

Essential Vaccines for Seniors

Preventative care in retirement is key to a happy and healthy life. Here are the vaccines you need for good senior health in Midland.

Influenza (Flu)

Flu shots for older adults are a must on your vaccine schedule. You should ask for the high-dose option, such as Fluzone High-Dose or Fluad, as these are specifically designed for seniors over 65. Since vaccines don't work as well the older you get, these have four times the antigen as standard flu vaccines.

You should get a dose annually; ideally, it should be before the end of October. Seniors are more likely to experience flu-related complications, such as pneumonia or worsening of chronic illnesses, so this can be great protection during the winter.

Pneumococcal

The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

What's great is that the Prevnar 20 (PCV20) is preferred for its simplicity; you only need one dose to be protected. However, you can also get the PCV15 and PPSV23 in sequence, and some doctors may suggest this for some older adults.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Shingles is caused by the same virus that gives you chickenpox, and it happens when the virus is reactivated. Shingles presents as painful rashes, and afterward, you may get nerve damage (postherpetic neuralgia).

The National Institute on Aging says that 1 in 3 adults who had chickenpox before will get shingles. And the older you get, the more you're at risk. Around half of all shingles cases are in adults aged 60 or older.

To prevent this from happening, you should get the shingles vaccine Shingrix, which is a recombinant zoster vaccine. Two doses spaced 2-6 months apart should suffice.

COVID-19

Although the coronavirus isn't as deadly as it was years ago, it still can have serious consequences for seniors. They face the highest risk of severe illness, but boosters can help restore waning immunity.

Older adults should receive updated COVID-19 vaccines as recommended by the CDC. They're often formulated for the latest variants.

Tdap

"Tdap" stands for "tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis." You should've received the Tdap vaccine in your younger years; if so, then you should get a booster every 10 years. If you've never received one, then get it once, and then the Td booster every 10 years.

It's especially important to get the Tdap vaccine if you're around infants. They're especially vulnerable to pertussis, which is the whooping cough.

RSV

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) can cause serious respiratory illness in seniors, especially if you have lung or heart disease. Speak with your doctor about if and when you should get the RSV vaccine.

Medicare and Insurance Coverage for Vaccines

Are you worried about paying for vaccines since you have other expenses in independent living? The good news is that Medicare will cover you.

Medicare Part B covers:

• Flu shots
• Pneumococcal vaccines
• COVID-19 vaccines
• Hepatitis B vaccine (if at high risk)
• RSV vaccine (as of 2023)

Medicare Part D covers:

• Shingles
• Tdap/Td boosters

You should check with your pharmacy or doctor to ensure your vaccines are billed correctly under the correct Medicare part.

Local Vaccine Resources for Midland Seniors

Whether you're aging in place or are in an independent living community, you can get help from the Midland County Health Department. They offer:

• Immunization services
• Educational resources
• Help registering vaccines through ImmTrac2 (Texas's immunization registry)

Here are the local pharmacies that offer vaccinations:

• CVS
• Walgreens
• Walmart Pharmacy
• H-E-B

Many accept walk-ins, and they even process Medicare Part B/D.

You should also keep an eye out for seasonal vaccination drive announcements at Midland Memorial Hospital and Senior Health Services.

Ongoing Vaccine Planning After August

Vaccinations go well beyond National Immunization Awareness Month. You should also keep up with annual wellness visits and fall vaccine events.

Once you get your shots, add them to ImmTrac2 or your personal health documents to keep your records up-to-date.

Make Sure to Get Your Vaccines

National Immunization Awareness Month is an important period that's more than just a reminder. It's the perfect time for you to review your vaccinations, then update and take action if necessary.

By staying vigilant, you'll have safer and more comfortable years ahead of you. Plus, you'll be contributing to stronger community immunity, which ensures that everyone remains as healthy as possible.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about senior living in Midland, TX and what Polo Park Estates events are available. Polo Park Estates Senior Living has gone through a recent community-wide renovation to update our spaces.