Adults And Vaccines: The Push To Get Adults Immunized

DETROIT (WWJ) - Are your immunizations up to date?

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is urging adults to make their health a priority.

Adults should be vaccinated against diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis and shingles reports WWJ health reporter Dr. Deanna Lites.

Yet less than a third of adults in the United States have actually gotten these vaccines notes Michigan Health Department Chief Dr. Eden Wells.

"Many adults will think it's important for their children but for their health it's not as important and what we are trying to come out with our message today ... there are important things you can do to protect yourself - you can stay healthy for your family," she says.

Another reason is that many adults don't go for an annual medical check-up; so time passes by without getting the necessary immunizations.

Most health insurance plans will cover adult vaccines but it's important to check with your health carrier before your appointment.

Recommendations change often and it can be confusing to remember what vaccinations you've had and when.

One way to remember is to get a vaccination card that you can mark everything down and carry it with you.

Or there's a Michigan Care Immunization registry and more information from the Centers for Disease Control. You can sign up and then have your doctor put the information in there after you get a shot so that every health care provider can get access and know what vaccines you've had and what you need.

Find more information about adult vaccines HERE.