Immunizations

"THE FLU SHOT", also known as the influenza vaccine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us that much of the illness and death caused by the flu can be prevented by a yearly flu shot. Each year, the flu causes more than 20,000 deaths and more than 100,000 people to go to the hospital in the United States. Problems caused by the flu can occur at any age; however, older people and people with chronic health problems are much more likely to have serious problems after having the flu.

                                                                                CDC, June, 2001.

 

Since the year 2000, the CDC has recommended that all people who are 50 years of age or older get a flu shot.

As a woman with a disability, you should think about getting a flu shot, especially if you are over age 50. Studies have shown that women with chronic illness have a high risk for serious problems from the flu. Still, many of these same women do not get a flu shot.

If you are at high risk for problems from the flu, the CDC also suggests that other people who live in the house with you should get a flu shot. This would keep them from getting the flu and giving it to you. You should think about talking to people in your home about this suggestion.

To learn more, click on http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/flu/fluvac.htm


                 Pneumonia vaccine

The CDC tells us that pneumonia is one of the most common causes of death in America that could be prevented. You can get a shot to keep you from getting this disease. This shot is called the pneumococcal vaccine

You should think about getting this vaccine if:

• You are 65 years old or older

• You have a serious health problem such as heart disease, sickle cell disease, alcoholism, leak of cerebrospinal fluid, lung disease, diabetes, or liver disease.

• You have a low resistance to infection. For example, if you have taken steroids for a long time, you have a higher risk for infection.

• You are an Alaskan Native or from certain Native American populations.
  
                                                                                          CDC, May, 2000
  

As a woman with a disability, talk to your doctor or nurse to find out if a pneumonia shot is right for your. If you get this disease, you may not be able to get well as easily because of your disability. The shot can help to keep you from getting sick in the first place.

While the pneumonia shot can keep you from getting very sick, having to go to the hospital, and even from dying, it may still not prevent all symptoms in all people.

Diphtheria and Tetanus (lockjaw)

Along with pneumonia and flu, diphtheria and tetanus (lockjaw) are very serious diseases for people who are age 65 or older. Over half of the U.S. cases of tetanus between 1982 and 1998 occurred in people over the age of 60. The CDC suggests that you have a booster every 10 years. Talk to your doctor or nurse to find out if you need these shots.  

Please note:

As always, you should talk about these immunizations with a health care provider who knows about your specific disability. There may be reasons why you should not get these vaccines.

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08/11/2003 12:52 PM