Vaccines aren't just for little kids

According to a recent survey by the National Foundation for Infections Diseases, adults ages 18 to 26 are more clueless about preventable diseases than older adults. The CDC as a recommended schedule for adult immunizations. Among those important for young adults: heapatitus B, tetanus booster, HPV, meningitis, and flue. Here are some of the measures of cluelessness among young adults:

• 70% don't know that the flu kills more Americans than any other vaccine-preventable disease each year.
  
• 55% don't know that the virus that causes chicken pox also causes shingles
  
• 51% don't realize that they need a tetanus booster every 10 years
  
• 34% believe that the common cold is preventable via a vaccine (um... nope)
  

From my own misspent youth I can believe these numbers. When you're young you kind of think that you're invulnerable. Other than my annual gynecological exam, I don't think I saw a doctor on a regular basis until I was in my late twenties. And, vaccines? I thought those were for little kids or people traveling overseas.

My husband developed shingles when he was in his early 30's. It was horribly painful for him.

After missing a week's work for the flu in my early 30's, I started seeking out a flu shot every Fall. Got mine this year in mid-September. I haven't gotten the Swine Flu vaccine. I would if the supplies weren't so screwed up.

I think I'm about due for a tetanus booster, come to think of it.

Suck it up, kids. You're not indestructible.

Hit Me With Your Best Shot - P...