Feds release new recommendations on adult vaccinations

The Federal government yesterday released new recommendations on which vaccinations adults should receive and how often they should receive them. (Source: "Study on infrequency of adult shots stings a lot," Columbus Dispatch, Jan. 24, 2008.) According to new data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a survey from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, few adults are receiving all needed vaccinations and the "vast majority of adult Americans lack awareness of vaccines and the severity of infectious diseases." (Source: Press release, Jan. 23, 2008.)

Among the recommendations the federal government made yesterday for routine adult vaccinations are:

• Tetanus and diphtheria: every 10 years
• Pertussis: Those younger than 65 should have one tetanus and diphtheria shot that includes a booster dose for pertussis.
• Pneumococcal disease: Those 65 or older should be vaccinated.
• Human papillomavirus: Women 26 and younger should receive the three-dose vaccination.
• Influenza: annually for those who want to reduce the risk of flu and especially for those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, health-care workers and people 50 or older
• Shingles (herpes zoster): Those 60 or older should receive the vaccine.