Top Vaccines Every Veteran Should Get at the VA
As a veteran, you may have been exposed to many different disease-causing agents during your time in service. The good news is that the Veterans Health Administration (VA) offers a comprehensive vaccination program to protect you from many of these illnesses. Here are the top vaccines every veteran should consider getting at the VA.
1. Influenza Vaccine:
The influenza virus can cause serious respiratory illness, sometimes leading to hospitalization or even death. The influenza vaccine is the best way to protect against this virus. The VA offers the influenza vaccine every year, usually in September or October, and it is recommended for all veterans.
2. Pneumococcal Vaccine:
The pneumococcal bacteria can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Pneumococcal vaccines can protect against the most common types of pneumococcal bacteria. The VA recommends that all veterans over age 65, and all younger veterans with certain chronic health conditions, receive the pneumococcal vaccine.
3. Shingles Vaccine:
The varicella-zoster virus causes chickenpox, and it can remain dormant in the body for years, reactivating later in life as shingles. The shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of developing shingles and can also help reduce the severity of symptoms if shingles occur. The VA recommends that all veterans over age 60 receive the shingles vaccine.
4. Hepatitis B Vaccine:
Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. The VA recommends that all veterans at risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids, such as healthcare workers and those with multiple sexual partners, receive the hepatitis B vaccine.
5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine:
HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and throat. The VA recommends the HPV vaccine for all veterans under age 45, as well as older veterans who have not yet been vaccinated and are at high risk of HPV infection.
In conclusion, the VA offers a comprehensive vaccination program to protect veterans from many illnesses. As a veteran, you should ensure that you are up-to-date on all recommended vaccines to maintain optimal health. Get in touch with a VA healthcare provider to learn more about the vaccines you need and to schedule your vaccines today.
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