Getting vaccinated is crucial for elderly individuals due to the weakening of their immune systems as they age. Here's a rundown of seven vaccinations that are particularly important for this age group, along with some enrichment insights:
Influenza Vaccine
Individuals aged 60 and above should receive a flu shot annually. This recommendation comes from the Standing Committee on Vaccination (Stiko) of the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Vaccination not only reduces the risk of severe illness but also lessens the likelihood of complications such as heart attack, stroke, or pneumonia in older people. The best time for the flu shot is October or November.
Pneumococcus Vaccine
Pneumococcus is a bacteria that can cause pneumonia, nasal sinus inflammation, middle ear inflammation, and meningitis. In extreme cases, a pneumococcal infection can lead to a fatal outcome. To reduce the risk of such an infection, elderly people should get at least one pneumococcal vaccination. It can be renewed after six years if the doctor deems it beneficial.
Shingles Vaccine
Anyone who had chickenpox in childhood is at risk of developing shingles, a disease that can cause blisters on the skin, particularly around the torso and chest, accompanied by intense pain. To prevent this disease as much as possible, it is recommended to get two vaccinations with an interval of two to six months.
Covid-19 Vaccine
Individuals aged 60 and above are recommended to undergo booster vaccination annually against Covid-19. This should be done no later than twelve months after the last vaccination or infection. Autumn is the best time for this.
Tetanus Vaccine
Tetanus is an illness caused by bacteria, always triggered by an injury. Victims suffer from muscle spasms, which can be particularly severe in elderly individuals. To prevent this, vaccination is recommended every ten years.
Diphtheria Vaccine
Diphtheria has two forms: respiratory diphtheria, which can cause swelling of the neck lymph nodes and paralysis of the thumb, and cutaneous or wound diphtheria, characterized by fatty deposits on small wounds. After the basic immunization, diphtheria revaccination should be carried out every ten years.
FSME Vaccine
FSME stands for tick-borne encephalitis, an infectious disease transmitted through tick bites. Vaccination is recommended when planning trips or residing in a risk zone where there are many ticks.
Enrichment Insights
For elderly people, several vaccinations are recommended to protect them from severe respiratory and other diseases. Here are some key vaccinations and their importance:
- RSV Vaccine: Approved vaccines include Pfizer's Abrysvo, GSK's Arexvy, and Moderna's mResvia. They are recommended for people aged 60 and older, especially those aged 75 and older, and those aged 60-74 with increased risk for severe RSV disease. Vaccination helps prevent severe lower respiratory tract disease, leading to hospitalization and complications.
- Influenza Vaccine: Influenza is a significant risk for older adults, leading to hospitalizations and deaths. Annual influenza vaccination is essential to protect against seasonal flu.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: Older adults are at the highest risk for severe COVID-19 illness, hospitalization, and death. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone aged 5 and older, with a second dose for adults aged 65 and older six months after the first dose.
- Other Vaccines: Vaccination remains crucial to maintain herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly. Vaccines are essential for preventing a range of serious diseases, including polio, measles, mumps, and tetanus.
