Vaccinations

"Almost 1 out of 3 people in America will develop shingles during their lifetime.  A single dose of shingles vaccine is indicated for adults 60 years of age and older." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Although I have never had shingles, I know others who have; and it is very painful and can be permanently disabling.  Dwane had shingles before I met him -- so severe that he was hospitalized, and it caused permanent damage to his vision.  We were not sure if he should get the shingles vaccination since he had already had shingles, but his doctor researched it and said, yes.  Even if you have had shingles, getting the shingles vaccination can prevent other episodes.  As caregivers, we need to protect our own health, as well as the health of the care receiver.  One of the easy ways to do that is to get vaccinations.  Shingles vaccination if you are over 60.  Flu shot every year if you are 65 or older and residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes.  Pneumococcal vaccine if you are 65 or older.  The flu season is upon us early this year.  If you have not had this vaccination, now is the time to get it.