Today, we're pleased to bring you a guest article
which was written by the team at Fifty & Me Magazine.
They decided to share their knowledge of immunization with us when
we passed the milestone of 50.

Over time, our immunity is weakening... This immunosenescence makes us more vulnerable to diseases and their complications. To preserve our health, vaccination is highly recommended. A reminder! 

Guest article written by Fifty & Me Magazine

Better safe than sorry...

The World Health Organization estimates that vaccination saves the lives of 2 million people each year! In fact, in addition to giving our antibodies a boost, vaccines protect those around us and limit the risk of epidemics. While patients in the United States have a lifetime immunization card, in our country the vaccination record is often neglected as an adult. If you are not sure if you are "up to date", it is time to ask your family doctor or pharmacist! Indeed, some vaccines have limited effects while others are specific to the risks to which one is exposed or sometimes simply recommended from a certain age.

Over time, our immunity weakens... This immunosenescence makes us more vulnerable to diseases and their complications. To preserve our health, vaccination is highly recommended. A reminder!

Your immunization schedule

Pneumococcus

For whom? The risk of being infected increases as we age, which is why the Superior Council of Health advocates vaccination for all people 65 years and older. In some countries, routine vaccination is applied from the age of 50.

Why Pneumococcus is a fearsome bacterium. Responsible for pulmonary infections, it is also often associated with sepsis, meningitis or ear infections.

When? There are two types of vaccines: the 23-valent and the 13-valent . The first one, older, has a broader spectrum as it protects against 23 strains but it must be repeated every 5 years. While the second one acts in depth by creating a lifetime immune memory.

How much? €75 and €28.

Flu

For whom? If not required, the flu vaccine is strongly recommended for those 65 years of age or older, as well as for smokers and overweight individuals. It is also necessary for all those who frequent hospitals for X or Y reasons (nursing staff, chronic patients, etc.).

Why? This fall, the vaccine offers quadruple protection against seasonal flu. Although it only protects up to 60 to 70% due to the mutation of the virus, it does limit the symptoms.

When? Every year, ideally between October and November

How much? Partially reimbursed starting at age 65

Zona

For whom? Although shingles can occur at any age, its incidence rises sharply in those over 50 who have had chickenpox in their lifetime.

Why? Very painful, shingles can also be very disabling for a period of time spanning several weeks. The vaccine is indicated to awaken the immune system against the Herpes Zoster virus.

When? A single injection starting at age 50.

How much? €137 minimum

Pertussis

For whom and why? Did you know that our protection against the so-called "crowing disease" reduces over time. Indeed, the antibodies disappear after 10 to 15 years. If you are about to become a grandmother (congratulations!), it is essential to get a cocoon vaccination because the condition can be very serious in an infant.

When? One dose of this vaccine protects for 10 years. It is a combination vaccine with tetanus and diphtheria.

Note: At age 50, barely half of people are still adequately protected. Although tetanus is rare in Belgium, it can be fatal. Gardening enthusiasts need to keep a double eye on their tetanus blanket because the bacteria nest in the soil.

And, finally, for frequent travelers?

Don't forget to ask your travel agent what vaccinations are required for your vacation abroad. Examples include Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, etc.