Adult Immunizations

Friday, August 16, 2002

 

Many adults aren’t adequately immunized to ward off diphtheria and tetanus. Dr. Ken Davis talks about the importance of booster shots in today’s Sixty Second Housecall.

 

While most children are immunized against diptheria and tetanus prior to starting school, many adults may not realize that over time the protection provided by the shots can wane.

 

A recent study revealed that 40 percent of Americans are not up to date on their diphtheria boosters and nearly 30 percent have inadequate immunization against tetanus.

 

Tetanus is a sometimes-fatal illness caused by toxin-producing bacteria that usually take hold in a cut or wound. Diphtheria attacks the larynx, tonsils and throat, and the toxins produced can damage the nerves and heart. Although tetanus and diphtheria are rare, even a well-controlled infection can re-emerge if the immunization wears off.

 

The United States Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices suggests that adults re-immunize every 10 years. Immunizations are available from your family doctor as well as your local health department.

 

Don’t forget to keep a permanent immunization record to help you and your doctor ensure that you are fully protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. It can also prevent re-vaccination during an emergency or when you change providers. For more information, log on to wtva.com and click on Sixty Second Housecall. For North Mississippi Medical Center, I’m Dr. Ken Davis.

 

Dr. Davis encourages everyone to consult your family physician or your city or county health department for information about immunizations or visit wtva.com.