Author: Leslie Toldo
When we think of immunizations, children most often come to mind, but they are important for adults, too. Vaccines can significantly reduce the risk of both getting harmful, and even deadly, diseases and help prevent the spread of infections.
“It is also important to note that vaccines can not only prevent diseases, but the significant lifelong adverse effects that may be related to having a specific infection, even after the illness has subsided,” said Physician Assistant Stacy Lueckeman, of McLaren Flint - Fenton Family Medicine.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination rates for both children and adults are still below pre-pandemic levels. We have also seen resurgence of some infectious diseases, like measles.
“As a provider, this is very concerning to me,” said Lueckeman. “Because many of these infectious diseases were nearly irradicated by vaccines, I think people do not realize just how damaging and even deadly these diseases can be because they've never seen or experienced them firsthand. “
People are hesitant about getting themselves or their children vaccinated for a variety of reasons. Fear of possible side effects is chief among them.
“There is a myth that vaccinations can cause autism spectrum disorder in children, which has been debunked many times over- there is no evidence of this, “said Lueckeman, “Another myth is that vaccinations cause you to get whatever illness the vaccine is designed to prevent, like influenza or COVID. Again, this is not true. If you develop symptoms after a vaccination, it is simply your immune system creating an immune response. “
The vaccine schedule for children is based on age, and many vaccines may require multiple doses. The first childhood vaccinations are recommended during infancy. You should discuss the appropriate vaccine schedule for your child with your pediatrician or family physician.
“I am still seeing parents forego vaccinations altogether for their children,” Lueckeman said. “There is a reason these vaccines were tested and developed. We want to try to help provide immunity from any infectious disease that we can.”
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine prevents this sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cancer. It is recommended for children, but adults may be eligible for it as well.
“It’s recommended to start at age 11 or 12, but the CDC recommends it up until age 26,” Lueckeman said. “Those 27 or older can also start the vaccination series if they want to get the benefits of the immunizations and want protection against high-risk strains of HPV.”
Adults should get a tetanus booster every ten years, as well as Zoster (shingles) and pneumococcal vaccines.
“I also recommend a yearly influenza vaccination. For some adults, I am also recommending the RSV vaccine if they are immunocompromised or have an underlying lung condition such as asthma or COPD.”
Lueckeman recommends the COVID vaccine, too. “Particularly for patients who are immunocompromised or who have underlying health conditions that would make them more susceptible to severe COVID,” Lueckeman said.
In some cases, vaccines may not be an option for adults or children who have contraindications or who have had severe allergic reactions to vaccines in the past. Otherwise, Lueckeman recommends getting the vaccines available.
“There are a lot of misconceptions and misinformation regarding vaccinations, and I encourage people to have an open, honest conversation with their healthcare provider about vaccine recommendations as well as their reservations and hesitations about them,” Lueckeman said. “We are here to take care of you in the best way possible.”
If you are looking for a primary care provider who is accepting new patients, visit mclaren.org/flintappointments.