Immunizations Aren't Just for Kids (continued from page 1)
Seeing patients suffer from any disease is difficult. But it is especially frustrating when one of our patients suffers from an illness or disease which could have easily been prevented.

While most people think of “preventive medicine” as involving “screening” tests such as mammograms or paps, prevention involves much more. But such preventive action is often very patient-specific.

While some preventive measures apply to everyone (e.g..wearing seatbelts, remaining as physically active as feasible, etc.) many—if not most—preventive measures are necessary for some patients only. Immunizations are like that.

It’s a common misconception held by most adults that “immunizations are for babies.” Not true. Just ask any adult who has suffered from Hepatitis or Shingles or missed 2 weeks of work with a serious flu or pneumonia: “If you could wind back time and prevent this with a simple vaccination, would you?” The answer is obvious. The problem is, for them, it’s always too late. Not so for you!

Don’t wait for a routine physical, or trust that your doctor will somehow automatically remember that your last tetanus booster was given 10 years ago and that you’ve just come due. Ask to get up-to-date regarding your immunizations at your next visit.