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Stay ahead of illness with 8 key preventive vaccines
Vaccines like flu and RSV help protect you and your loved ones from serious illnesses. Talk to your provider about staying up-to-date and getting the right shots at the right times.
Your body needs regular vaccines, like flu and RSV shots. They can help protect you and your loved ones from getting sick. And if you do get sick, they can help you get better faster and ease symptoms. Here are some key vaccines to ask your provider about.
1. Influenza
What it is
Influenza (flu) is a viral infection that can cause severe symptoms such as high fever, cough, sore throat and fatigue. It spreads easily through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
When to get the vaccine
Every year, there’s a new flu vaccine to protect against the most common types of flu viruses. It's best to get it in the fall, before flu season starts. This way, you'll be ready to face the winter months without worrying about getting sick.
Complications to watch for
In serious cases, the flu could lead to pneumonia (a lung infection) or sinus and ear infections.
2. RSV
What it is
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause cold-like symptoms. It can be serious for adults 65 and older and people with weak immune systems.
When to get the vaccine
RSV season starts in the fall. Getting vaccinated in September or October can help provide the best protection throughout the season. You’re typically covered for two years after one dose of the vaccine.
Complications to watch for
Complications of this virus include pneumonia and inflammation of lung airways.
3. Pneumonia
What it is
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection. It's especially important for older adults and people with certain health conditions like asthma, heart disease or diabetes.
When to get the vaccine
This vaccine helps prevent illness and serious complications. For those age 65 and older one dose of the vaccine is typical. Any time of year is better than never. Ask your provider if you’re due for the vaccine.
Complications to watch for
In serious cases, it can cause bacteria to spread to the blood, leading to a serious infection. It can also cause fluid to build up around the lungs, making it hard to breathe.
4. COVID-19
What it is
This is a virus that can cause coughing, fever and breathing problems, especially in older adults.
When to get the vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine can help protect you from getting sick and spreading the virus to others. Try to get the latest booster as soon as it is available to you. It's important to protect yourself and others, especially during surges in cases.
Complications to watch for
Long-term complications could include pneumonia, blood clots and even organ damage.
5. Shingles
What it is
Shingles is a painful rash that can happen if you've had chickenpox before. The shingles vaccine can help prevent this from happening.
When to get the vaccine
You can get the shingles vaccine any time of the year. Adults 50 years or older get two doses two to six months apart.
Complications to watch for
Serious shingles cases can lead to a blistering rash on one side of the face or body, long-term nerve pain, hearing damage or blindness.
6. Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, or Tdap
What it is
Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system, diphtheria is a serious nose and throat infection and pertussis is better known as whooping cough.
When to get the vaccine
A Tdap protects against all three illnesses. Most adults need a booster shot every 10 years to stay protected. Work with your provider to see when you’re due.
Complications to watch for
Tetanus can lead to stiff muscles and breathing problems. Diphtheria can also cause difficulty breathing, heart problems and nerve damage. Pertussis can trigger severe coughing fits and pneumonia.
Ready to book your next flu vaccine?
It’s a key step toward staying healthy this fall, and it’s covered by your plan. Call your pharmacy or provider to schedule your flu shot today. Learn more about vaccine coverage.
7. Meningitis
What it is
Meningitis is a serious illness caused by harmful bacteria. It can make the brain and spinal cord swell.
When to get the vaccine
Ask your provider about this vaccine if:
- You didn’t get the shot during childhood
- You’re traveling soon
- You have a chronic health condition
Complications to watch for
Meningitis may lead to fever, headache, stiff neck, light sensitivity, confusion, deafness or seizures.
8. Hepatitis A
What it is
Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection. It usually spreads through contaminated food or water, or through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
When to get the vaccine
Ask your provider if you should get this vaccine, especially a few weeks before traveling or if you have a condition like chronic liver disease.
Complications to watch for
Complications of Hepatitis A include liver failure, yellow skin or eyes, stomach pain, vomiting, fever, diarrhea or fatigue.
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