Vaccination, a cornerstone of preventive health, is often associated with childhood. However, the importance of immunization extends well into adulthood. In the Philippines, where infectious diseases remain a public health concern, staying up-to-date on recommended vaccines is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Allow us to walk you through the essential vaccines for adults in the country and the significance of immunization, covering HPV, flu, pneumonia, shingles, hepatitis B, and TdaP. Read on to learn more about making informed decisions to safeguard your well-being and contribute to improved public health.
-
HPV Vaccine
HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical cancer. Most people will get HPV at some point in their lives, and while often harmless, it can persist and cause cancer in certain cases. Protecting yourself with the HPV vaccine can significantly reduce your risk of developing this serious disease.
The recommended age for the HPV vaccine is 9-years-old before sexual contact and exposure to HPV up until the age of 25. However, it may also be advised for adults. Everyone through age 26 should get vaccinated against HPV, and those between the ages of 27–45 should get it after speaking to their doctor regarding vaccination.
HPV affects both men and women, and the more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of getting it. The HPV vaccine can protect men from HPV-related health problems like genital warts, penile cancer, and anal cancer. Even though women are at a greater risk, it's recommended that both men and women get vaccinated to prevent HPV infection and its spread.
Options for the HPV vaccine are Gardasil 4-valent, which protects against 4 strains of HPV; or Gardasil 9-valent, which protects against 9 strains. You should complete three doses of the HPV vaccine to get lifetime protection.
-
Flu Vaccine
The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the lungs and airways. Unlike the common cold, it causes severe symptoms like fever, body aches, and chills. While most people recover fully, the flu can be dangerous for young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.
The flu virus changes constantly. To stay ahead of it, the flu vaccine is updated every year to protect against the most common strains circulating––that's why it's crucial to get vaccinated annually.
-
Pneumonia Vaccine
Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by various germs. It can be mild or very serious, especially for babies, older adults, and people with other health problems. While it’s recommended for older adults aged 65 and above, it’s also advised for those who are younger with certain risk factors. These risk factors include chronic heart, lung, or liver disease, diabetes, smoking, weakened immune systems, and splenia (absence of a spleen).
There are two main types of pneumonia vaccines: PPSV23 and PCV13. PPSV23 helps your body fight off pneumonia but its protection can wear off after a few years. You might need another shot after 5 years. PCV13 can offer longer-lasting protection. It's recommended to get PCV13 first, followed by PPSV23 at least a year later. Most people only need one shot of each vaccine for strong protection against pneumonia.
-
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you've had chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in your body and can reactivate years later as shingles. It typically appears as a painful rash with blisters on one side of your body.
The Shingles vaccine is given in two doses with a 2-6 month interval for immunocompetent adults aged 50 and older, or adults aged 19 and above who will be immunodeficient or immunosuppressed because of the disease or therapy.
It is given in two doses with a 1-2 month interval for those who are or will be immunodeficient or immunosuppressed and would benefit from completing the series within a shorter period.
-
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It can cause both short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) liver disease. The virus is spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids. While some people recover fully, others can develop serious liver problems like cirrhosis or liver cancer. Fortunately, you can stay protected with the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Primary vaccination with Hepatitis B is given in a 3-dose series with a typical schedule of 0-1-6 months. On the other hand, the accelerated schedule for those who are immunocompromised is 0-2-6 weeks or 0-14-42 days.
-
TdaP Vaccine
Tdap is a vaccine that protects against three serious bacterial infections:
- Tetanus: Also known as lockjaw, it causes painful muscle spasms.
- Diphtheria: A highly contagious infection that can cause difficulty breathing and heart problems.
- Pertussis: Commonly known as whooping cough, it's a respiratory infection that can lead to severe coughing fits.
Tdap is recommended for children, adolescents, and adults. Adults should get the Tdap vaccine:
- Once: If you haven't received it before.
- Every 10 years: As a booster shot to maintain protection.
- Pregnant women: Should get a dose of Tdap during each pregnancy, preferably between weeks 27 and 36.
- People with specific occupations: Such as healthcare workers or teachers might need it more frequently.
In conclusion, it's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best vaccination schedule for you and to get a valid prescription for any vaccine, to present before getting it administered.
Vaccination is a crucial component of an adult's healthcare journey. By protecting yourself against HPV, flu, pneumonia, shingles, hepatitis B, and Tdap, you may not only safeguard your own health but also contribute to a healthier community.
These vaccines offer protection against debilitating and potentially life-threatening illnesses, emphasizing the importance of staying up-to-date on immunization recommendations. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule based on age, health status, and lifestyle, and get a prescription. Book your vaccines today on mykindred.co!
Last medically reviewed on August 20, 2024.