Art of Aging: Adult vaccines

BRYN MAWR, Pa. (WPVI) -- It's just as important for adults to stay on top of their vaccine schedules as it is for children.

Joe Novelli got past chicken pox as a child, never dreaming the virus would come back again in the form of shingles.

"It was right on my back...the whole back. The shingles are very, very painful, very painful," said Novelli.

He says his skin still feels itchy.

"And its been about 3 years," Novelli adds.

The shingles vaccine might have prevented Novelli's suffering or at least reduced it.

But like many older adults, vaccines aren't always among the top medical concerns.

Dr. Thomas Lawrence of Main Line Health says tetanus & diphtheria boosters are needed every 10 years, and some need a whooping cough booster, too.

"It's particularly important for seniors who are going to be around infants, because infants aren't protected against whooping cough," said Dr. Lawrence.

Pneumonia vaccinations are also important. There are now 2 shots recommended - one which protects against 23 strains, and a newly added one for 13 more strains.

Depending on your lifestyle, job, or medical conditions, some people also need shots for Hepatitis A & B.

Dr. Lawrence says, "It's a good idea to do it as part of an annual checkup."

And, he says, if you're among the growing number of older adults traveling, you might need some additional shots.

For more information go toMain Line Health, the CDC Adult Immunizations section, or to AdultVaccination.org .