August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a time to check your health records and make sure you’ve received all relevant vaccinations and boosters.
Immunity derived from childhood vaccines can subside over time, and adults become susceptible to different diseases.
While the COVID-19 vaccine remains at the forefront of the national conversation, you may find that several of your childhood immunizations need boosters. These may include MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and varicella (chickenpox).
Depending on your age and health condition, vaccines or boosters also may be required for hepatitis B, meningitis, HPV and shingles.
And of course, the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu shot are strongly encouraged for all adults. With the prevalence of coronavirus, and with flu season just around the corner, it is especially important that you receive these vaccines and boosters.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers VaccineFinder, a free online service that searches COVID-19 vaccination sites with open appointments nearby. The agency works with clinics, pharmacies and health departments to provide accurate and current information, updated daily.
An online assessment tool to help you determine what other general vaccinations you may need is also available.
The CDC website has additional details, and the Wellness LiteBlue page has more information on health matters.