You thought immunizations are only for babies and kids? As you grow older, you will actually need a different set of shots. Learn more about the vaccines recommended for senior citizens.
List of Vaccines
In the Philippines, not all senior citizens have access to products to build their immune system. But if you have the chance to get a shot, here are the most essential ones for the elderly.
Pneumonia Shot
People aged 60 years old and above are more prone to lung infections. As we grow older, the lungs become more vulnerable to viruses and bacteria attacks which may cause pneumonia.
Price: Php 2,800 to Php 3,500
Anti Tetanus
Love digging garden soil? Be careful as it could be a source of the tetanus bacteria. Some activities of seniors, as they retire and do household chores, may become a source of infection, especially tetanus.
Price: Php 300 to Php 500
You can also get other immunization types based on your preference and see the price list in the Philippines.
Flu Vaccine
Did you know that there is a new type of flu (trangkaso) virus every year? That’s why you will hear doctors recommending yearly flu shots. You may avail this even among pharmacies and drug stores. In fact, they have senior citizen discounts applied on products for each shot.
Price: Php 700 to Php 1,200
You already know that immunization can save lives. Now that you are a senior, your body needs it more than ever. Yes, the cost may be high but the government is doing something to help seniors get immunized. According to an Inquirer report, there is an initiative to include vaccines into the expanded senior citizen benefits.
I can’t remember whether any of my grandparents talked about being vaccinated. They were healthy and had no major problems with health. But with the recent pandemic, everyone has become more conscious and these products have become a standard in protecting against diseases regardless of age.
Where Should I Get One?
Among the types listed, the most accessible is pneumonia and flu shots. As mentioned, they are accessible even among drug stores. You are buying your maintenance medicines in pharmacies anyway so why not get a shot?
Note however that some of the centers have a dedicated schedule for immunization. It is free of charge so you only have to pay for the vaccine itself.
Do I Need Doctor Prescription?
While most of these do not require prescription, you may also ask the pharmacist or nurse who will administer them. They also have the right knowledge about the products. If in doubt, simply have your injection at your preferred doctor’s clinic.
Side Effects on Senior Citizen Patients
Like with most vaccines, one may experience side effects after the shot. They may include but not limited to pain in the injection area, redness, swelling and sometimes even fever. Talk to your doctor if you experience severe side effects.