Diseases that can be prevented by vaccines kill more than 50,000 American adults every year and send hundreds of thousands more to hospitals for treatment.
Many people are not aware that they may still need vaccinations as an adult. And adults may need booster vaccinations in order to have full protection. A booster vaccination may be necessary if:
- Their immunity wore off and they lack full protection against once common childhood diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, measles, mumps, German measles (rubella) and pertussis (whooping cough).
- Some older adults may have never been vaccinated as a child. Many newer vaccines were not available when they were a child.
- Older adults are more susceptible to serious diseases caused by common infections. Influenza and pneumonia can cause severe illness for adults with underlying health conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
Promoting vaccinations in your workplace can have a positive impact on workplace environment. Vaccines promote a better quality of life and prevent serious and even life threatening illnesses from infectious disease.
It is important to note that some individuals may not support the use of vaccinations. They may believe vaccinations go against their religious beliefs or cause adverse health outcomes. Make sure to take these views into account when promoting a worksite immunization program. Though they may not agree with or support an immunization program, provide them with the information to make an informed decision on whether or not to vaccinate.