Health by Robert MacMillan MD We are all familiar with the common infections that somany of us were subjected to as children. These included measles, mumps, chicken pox, whooping cough and German measles. For earlier generations, there was a serious risk of polio, diphtheria and tetanus. Historically since early times, we continue to see new vaccines developed that reduce or eliminate the threat of infectious diseases, including all of the above. More recently, there have been particular advances in the discovery of new vaccines and treatments which can reduce or prevent infections that affect those over the age of 50 as well. Are you up to date with your vaccinations? It was in 1796 that English rural doctor Edward Jenner first discovered that injecting individuals with an extract of the infective agent causing cowpox disease in cattle gave immunity to the dreaded (and often fatal) infection – smallpox – in humans. Smallpox had killed huge numbers of persons for centuries, including an estimated 300-500 million deaths in the 20th century. Most of us born before the early 70s have a small scar proving our vaccination against this disease. Through intensified efforts by the World Health Organization beginning in the late 1960s, smallpox was declared totally eradicated in 1980. Three of themost common infections towhich persons over the age of 50 are most vulnerable are influenza, pneumonia and shingles. For seniors, especially those with other chronic conditions, these infections can bring grief, suffering and sometimes death. Improved vaccinations are now being developed and used, which can substantially reduce your risk of contracting these infections. It is important for all of us to be vigilant in knowing whether or not we are currently protected. Doctors concentrate on your present concerns and conditions and often omit reviewing your current immunization status. It’s important for you to do your homework, to know and document your current vaccine status and to be up to date on the current availability of recommended vaccinations. VACCINATION UPDATE 36 | www.snowbirds.org
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