Vaccines for adults

NEW YORK

So what are the key vaccines for grownups?

A bad cough, sneezing, and congestion are symptoms we try to avoid at all costs, but thousands of adults still go without the recommended vaccinations every year.

"I actually had the flu twice last year and ended up in the ER the second time," said Mary Lowery.

Studies show only one third of adults take the flu shot during the season.

And other more dangerous diseases are also being put on the back burner.

The most forgotten illness is chicken pox. It's not just for kids; in fact adults are 10 times more likely to be hospitalized when they have chickenpox than are children.

If you've never had it, the CDC recommends two doses of the vaccine.

If you're 60 or older you're not off the hook. One million adults get shingles every year.

It's caused by the same virus as chicken pox.

It stays dormant for years and can reactivate later in life, causing severe pain. One dose of the vaccine is recommended for all adults over 60.

Finally, Whooping Cough for years one shot as a child was considered enough, but the number of cases is on the rise.

Adults especially parents with small children, should have one T-Dap shot followed by a tetanus booster every 10 years.

Protecting yourself so you can protect those who need you most.

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