Regarding childhood vaccines, people often assume that once vaccinated, it will provide lifelong protection and no further doses will be needed. However, due to changing lifestyle, increasing pollution levels and the natural process of ageing, the body’s immunity gradually weakens, increasing the risk of various diseases again. Medical experts emphasize that it is important to get several vaccinations even after the age of 18. Many people skip getting important vaccinations due to lack of information or outright carelessness—these omissions can have adverse effects on their health later.
According to doctors, the body’s ability to fight diseases decreases with time. Additionally, the effectiveness of some vaccines wanes after several years; Therefore, the body needs booster doses from time to time to maintain its protection. Getting vaccinated is especially important for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with diabetes or other serious chronic diseases. These vaccines give the body the strength to fight dangerous viruses and infections, thereby significantly reducing the risk of serious diseases.
Additionally, to protect against the constantly changing types of flu viruses, doctors recommend getting a flu vaccine once every year. People often ignore the flu, thinking of it as just a common fever. Another important vaccine is the Tdap vaccine, which protects against diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis). Doctors recommend that a booster dose of this vaccine should be given every 10 years, so that the body’s immunity is maintained.
Awareness about the HPV vaccine is also increasing. This vaccine protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a germ that causes many types of cancer, including cervical cancer. Although many people assume that the HPV vaccine is only for teenagers, medical experts clarify that those who missed the opportunity to get vaccinated in their youth can also take advantage of it later, provided they do so on the advice of their doctor.
Meanwhile, hepatitis B vaccine plays an important role in preventing serious liver damage and reducing the risk of infection. Doctors especially recommend getting this vaccine for people working in hospitals, laboratories or day-care centers, because these professionals are at higher risk of coming in contact with the infection. Many people are also not aware of the MMR vaccine, which protects against diseases like measles, mumps and rubella. Additionally, if a person has not received the full course of this vaccine in childhood, it can be given later in adulthood. Similarly, the chickenpox vaccine is also considered important, because this disease can take a more serious form in adults. Doctors stress that getting vaccinated on time can help prevent complications related to hospitalization and long-term treatment.
Pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines help protect against serious bacterial infections that can cause dangerous diseases such as pneumonia and meningitis. Additionally, doctors especially recommend these vaccines for the elderly, people suffering from chronic diseases and those with weakened immune systems.
Health experts believe that vaccines are important not only for children but for people of all ages. Additionally, vaccines administered at the right time provide protection against many serious diseases and help maintain a strong immune system. Therefore, if you have not kept up with your vaccination schedule since you turned 18, you should definitely consult a doctor. This small precaution can keep you safe from major diseases in future.
