2023-10-03 09:54:57
New vaccination recommendations for people aged 60 and over have been issued by the Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) at the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) in Germany. As the immune system weakens with age, older individuals become more susceptible to viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of serious illnesses. Vaccinations can help reduce this risk and minimize the severity of infections.
One of the most important vaccinations for people aged 60 and over is the flu vaccine. The Stiko recommends that individuals in this age group receive a flu vaccination every year to protect against serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or pneumonia. Pharmacist Hannes Müller advises older people to get vaccinated in October or November so they are optimally protected during the flu season.
In addition to the flu vaccine, Stiko also recommends a pneumococcal vaccination for individuals over 60, especially those with underlying health conditions. Pneumococci are responsible for pneumonia and can cause inflammation or sepsis. Older individuals should receive at least one pneumococcal vaccination, which can be refreshed after six years if necessary.
Shingles, a painful condition caused by the herpes zoster virus, is another disease that can affect older individuals. Stiko recommends immunization against shingles for everyone over 60. This involves receiving two vaccinations two to six months apart to achieve complete protection.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, Stiko advises people aged 60 and over to get an annual booster vaccination for COVID-19. This additional dose is recommended to be given at least twelve months after the last vaccination or infection. Older individuals can receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccinations simultaneously.
Other vaccinations recommended for individuals over 60 include tetanus, diphtheria, and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) if living in or traveling to risk areas. Tetanus is caused by bacterial infection and can result in severe muscle cramps. A diphtheria vaccination should be given every ten years, in combination with a tetanus vaccination. TBE is a viral disease transmitted through tick bites and can cause flu-like symptoms and paralysis.
Consulting with a family doctor is essential to determine which vaccinations are necessary based on individual medical conditions. Vaccinations are not a foolproof method to avoid infections, but they can significantly reduce the severity of the disease. With the appropriate vaccination protection, older individuals can enhance their immune system’s ability to fight off viruses and bacteria.]
#Vaccinations #flu #Covid #tetanus