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Health department says adult vaccines important

FLORENCE, Wis. — Vaccines play an important role in protecting communities from disease, according to the Florence County Health Department.

Many people think that vaccines are just for children, but did you know that there are a number of vaccinations recommended for adults? Adults, especially those that are older, may be more susceptible to certain diseases than other individuals. Therefore, it is essential that adults get vaccinated to protect not only themselves, but also their friends and family from serious illness. The following vaccines are recommended for adults:

Tdap (Tetanus, Diptheria, and Pertussis) — Usually given at age 10 or 11, people who did not get Tdap should get it as soon as possible. A tetanus booster should be given every ten years. Tdap may be given as one of these boosters if you have never gotten Tdap before. Tdap is free at the health department due to the recent outbreak in Wisconsin.

Influenza (flu) — All people ages 6 months and older are recommended for annual vaccination with rare exceptions.

Hepatitis B — If not completed during childhood or adolescence.

Shingles — Recommended for people age 60 and older. Covered by most insurances from 60-64 years age.

Pneumococcal — Recommended for most adults 65 years of age and older.

Are you unsure of whether you are up to date on your vaccinations? You can access your immunization records online with your social security number using the Wisconsin Immunization Registry at https://www.dhfswir.org/PR/clientSearch.do?language=en.

You can also call the Florence County Health Department at 715-528-4837 to determine your vaccination status. If you have a Michigan provider, encourage her/him to update your registry as a Wisconsin resident to keep accurate health records.

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