Baycrest

16 16 Brain BrainMatters Matters FALL|WINTER 2020 2020 VACCINES ARE CRITICAL TO PROTECT THE HEALTH OF OLDER ADULTS A s we face the impacts of the global coronavirus pandemic, there is a new spotlight on the importance of immunization. It is more apparent than ever that vaccines play a critical role in protecting people from infectious diseases. While many people tend to think of vaccines as a preventative measure for children, both young and old need to stay current with their vaccinations to make sure they're protected against infection. In fact, older adults are at a higher risk of complications from serious, vaccine-preventable diseases. "As we age, our immune system weakens," says Chingiz Amirov, director, Clinical Support, Food & Nutrition, and Environmental Services at Baycrest. "Over time, the body may be less able to fight off infection, and chronic conditions can make us more vulnerable. The best way to prevent these complications is to get vaccinated." Vaccines can boost our immunity and help prevent serious diseases. A vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that help us develop immunity to that disease without having to first get the disease. Vaccines also help with "herd immunity" by preventing the spread of infectious diseases to other people. Your doctor can help guide you on which vaccines to get, but the following five vaccines are recommended for older adults. INFLUENZA VACCINE The influenza vaccine prevents millions of illnesses each year. It's especially important for seniors to receive their flu shot as more than 60 per cent of flu-related hospitalizations occur in people aged 65 and older. The flu shot has been associated with reduced hospitalizations among people with diabetes and chronic lung disease, as well as lower rates of cardiac events among people with heart disease. Be sure to get a flu shot every year to decrease your risk of contracting the most common strains of influenza. MMR VACCINE The MMR vaccine helps protect against measles, mumps and rubella (also known as German measles). Generally, people born before 1957 are considered immune to measles because they were likely infected during an outbreak before a vaccine was available. Those born after 1957 who were properly vaccinated, or who have had measles, are also protected. If you were born after 1957 and were not vaccinated or haven't had the measles, speak to your healthcare provider to determine if you should get a dose of the MMR vaccine. Adults born before 1970 are generally presumed to have acquired natural immunity to mumps. "Over time, the body may be less able to fight off infection, and chronic conditions can make us more vulnerable. The best way to prevent these complications is to get vaccinated."

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