Vaccines Recommended for Seniors in Victoria: What to Know

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) says that older adults are disproportionately affected by chronic conditions, as 93% have at least one. These issues can be hard to live with, and when you factor in a declining immune system, the world can have scary challenges.

You may not be able to eliminate your chronic conditions, but there are ways to help protect your immune system. There are aging immunizations you can get, and this is one of the best preventive care tips we can give you.

Now you might be curious about the vaccines recommended for seniors in Victoria, TX. In that case, keep reading. We'll give you all the information you need.

COVID-19 Vaccine

As far as senior vaccines in Victoria, TX go, the COVID-19 one is still an important one. Even though the pandemic is over, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 7 million reported COVID-19 deaths. The reality is that the virus is here to stay, and it can still be deadly, especially for seniors.

The COVID-19 vaccine protects against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is what causes COVID-19. What's great is that new formulations are released annually to target circulating variants.

Everyone over 65 should receive the most current formulation, which, at the time of writing, is the 2024-2025 vaccine. If you're an immunocompromised senior, then you may need additional doses (consult with your provider).

Your options here are Moderna (mRNA) and Novavax (protein subunit). Whichever you choose, you should get it once per season, annually. Ideally, you should get the shot in the fall before respiratory illness season peaks.

Flu Vaccine

As part of health support for older adults, you should get the flu vaccine. When you take away the worry of getting the flu, you can focus on other healthy ways to manage stress.

The influenza vaccine is a seasonal shot that protects against the most likely circulating strains of flu viruses each year. All adults over 60 should get it annually; ideally, the earlier, the better. If you receive the vaccine between September and October, then you'll get optimal protection throughout flu season.

Older adults should get the high-dose or adjuvanted versions, as these provide stronger protection.

Pneumococcal Vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae. This includes:

• Pneumonia
• Bloodstream infections
• Meningitis

Pneumococcal infections are more severe in seniors, and they're actually a leading cause of hospitalization. In fact, Our World in Data says it's one of the most common causes of death worldwide.

Older adults should get either one dose of the PCV15 shot followed by PPSV23 one year later. Or you can get just a single dose of PCV20 (there's no need for PPSV23).

You can get the pneumococcal vaccine any time of year. Make sure to ask your provider which version is appropriate for your personal situation.

Shingles Vaccine

Shingles is an illness that happens later in life after you've gotten chickenpox. The same virus reactivates to give you a painful rash, and the older you get, the higher your risk. What's worse is that after the rash goes away, you may develop chronic nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia).

Fortunately, the herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine can reduce the risk of shingles significantly. Not only that, but it may reduce the risk of neuroinflammatory conditions too, such as Alzheimer's.

All adults over 50 should get the Shingrix vaccine. There are two doses, which should be spaced two to six months apart.

RSV Vaccine

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can be quite serious. If you catch it, it can lead to the following for older adults:

• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia
• Hospitalizations

It's recommended that all adults over 75 get the RSV vaccine. This also applies to those who are 60-74 and have conditions like:

• COPD or asthma
• Heart failure
• Diabetes
• Weakened immune systems

There are two choices: Arexvy (GSK) and Abrysvo (Pfizer). Only one dose is recommended at this time, and you should get it annually in late summer or early fall (August-October).

Tdap/Td Vaccine

The Tdap vaccine covers tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough), which are serious bacterial diseases. The Td vaccine just covered tetanus and diphtheria.

Tdap is especially important for seniors who are often in contact with infants, such as their grandchildren. That way, they can prevent passing on the whooping cough to a vulnerable demographic.

If you've never received Tdap as an adult, then you should get one. After that, get a Td booster every ten years. Do note that these are often bundled with other vaccinations at physical exams, so you can take care of several shots at once.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

The hepatitis B vaccine prevents the virus, which is a liver infection. If you're under 60 years old, then you should get it if you have risk factors such as:

• Diabetes
• Dialysis
• Hepatitis C
• Multiple sex partners
• Immunosuppression

Otherwise, if you're over 60 and are healthy, it's optional.

There are two options for the vaccine schedule. You can either have three doses (0, 1, 6 months) or two doses (0 and 1 month). This may be available for certain types, like Heplisav-B.

Additional Vaccines

Based on your health history, you may need additional vaccines on top of the regular ones, like the flu and shingles shots. For example, if you reside in a senior living community, you'll want extra protection for herd immunity.

Here are some additional vaccines to consider:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Hepatitis A
• Meningococcal
• HPV
• Mpox, Hib, Polio

Always carry a copy of your vaccine record, and make sure you discuss your full vaccination history and underlying health conditions with your healthcare provider.

Follow These Vaccines Recommended for Seniors

Now you know the vaccines recommended for seniors. You can always ask your doctor about scheduling shots, but if you're having trouble, there are other resources available, such as the Victoria County Public Health Department (VCPHD) and local pharmacies.

Whatever you choose, the vaccines can often be given together. But do note that the timing and spacing may be adjusted based on your personal risk factors.

Morada Victoria's independent living neighborhood is a two-time JD Power and Associates award winner. Get in touch with us today if you're interested in senior living in Victoria, TX.