Updating immunizations ahead of the fall

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — With fall coming up, doctors say now is the right time for kids and adults, alike, to get caught up on their immunizations.

Doctors recommend getting the flu shot every year and staying up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine. They also highly recommend staying up-to-date on your shingles, pneumonia and tetanus/Tdap shots.

People over 50 years old are eligible for the shingles and pneumonia vaccines, which can be key prevention for those most vulnerable, especially.

“A large population of seniors are hospitalized with pneumonia every year because, as you age, your immune system drops, so your immunity decreases to these common diseases,” said Dr. Jaren Trost, the director of primary care for Optum New Mexico. “The pneumonia vaccine, there are two types: There’s a 13 valent and a 23 valent. They’re just really important to prevent pneumonia.”

Dr. Trost also says immunizations are a form of prevention. On that note, he says it’s important to consider giving your child not only the flu shot but the COVID-19 shot, especially now that many kids are back in school.

Above all, it’s important to talk to your doctor about immunizations and which ones are best for you and your loved ones.

Aside from getting caught up on immunizations, it’s important to wash your hands to keep yourself and others safe as flu season nears.