Pneumococcal: The vaccine only guards against a fractious of pneumococcus bacteria, but is strongly encouraged for adults ages 65 and older. The vaccine is recommended for those older than 2 years of age with chronic heart or lung disorders, or those with spleen dysfunction. Alaskan natives and certain American Indian populations are also recommended for the vaccination, and a separate treatment exists for children under 2. Consult your physician to figure out what is right for you and your family.
Influenza: Trivalent (protecting against three different viruses) and quadrivalent (protecting against four different viruses) vaccines are both available this season. While influenza vaccines are not recommended for children younger than 6 months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urge vaccination yearly for those who are older and healthy. The vaccine is available in multiple forms. Consult your physician about what is right for you.
TDAP: Those who have not had the TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine before should receive one and follow up with a dose every 10 years. Women should receive a dose for every pregnancy.
Varicella: Those who have not had chicken pox before should get the vaccination. The disease is highly contagious and, though mildly infectious, it should be taken seriously to ward off serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain. CDC recommends two doses of the vaccine for children ages 1 to 12 years, at least three months apart. The vaccine is not suitable for individuals who are pregnant or have weakened immune systems.
Hepatitis A: The Hep A vaccine is recommended for children more than a year old, in two doses at least six months apart, and also for those visiting foreign countries.
MMR: This vaccine prevents measles, mumps and rubella and is encouraged for all susceptible adolescents and adults. Students attending universities, those who travel for work and those employed in the health care industry are strongly encouraged to receive the vaccine. Pregnant women should not be vaccinated.
RV: The vaccine is recommended for infants at 2, 4 and 6 months to prevent the rotavirus infection, a disease that causes as many as 500,000 deaths per year.
Mammograms: This test for breast cancer is recommended every other year for women starting at age 40, and then annually after 50 years of age.
Colonoscopy: One of the best-known screenings, this test for colon cancer is recommended for men and women over the age of 50 every five to 10 years.
Diabetes Screening: The American Diabetes Association estimates that 7 million Americans are undiagnosed diabetic. An inexpensive blood test at your local physician’s office will provide peace of mind or guidelines for proper care.
Blood Pressure: Blood pressure monitors are abundant at local pharmacies for free testing. A five-minute test could be key in helping prevent or raise awareness of heart disease. Recommended beginning at age 20.
Aamna Aziz is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at
gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
