Vaccines

People over age 65 or who have compromised immune systems are most at risk for getting very sick from diseases like the flu, RSV, pneumonia and shingles. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent serious illness from these diseases. Centralina Area Agency on Aging (AAA) recently received grant funding from USAging’s Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative. This funding supports Centralina AAA’s work in connecting older adults and people with disabilities with information and resources on the importance of vaccination and options that are best for them to stay healthy and protected. This webpage provides you with the tools and information you need to feel confident about choosing to get vaccinated against various diseases. Please reach out to Cindy Kincaid at ckincaid@centralina.org if you have questions or would like more information.  

UPCOMING VACCINE CLINICS

More information coming soon!

Frequently Asked Questions  

For older adults and people with disabilities, it can be confusing and overwhelming to figure out which vaccines are recommended for your needs and when the right time is to get them. Identifying the essential information you need to know about available vaccines in your area is crucial to ensuring you and your loved ones have productive conversations with your trusted healthcare provider about what vaccines are right for you to help protect you in every phase of life. 

Why should I get vaccinated? 

People over age 65 or who have compromised immune systems are most at risk for getting very sick from these diseases. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent serious illness from these diseases. 

How much do vaccines cost? 

Some people are hesitant to get vaccinated because they aren’t sure how much it may cost them. For adults with private health insurance or insurance through the marketplace, most immunizations are covered as a preventative care benefit. Contact your insurance company for information on your benefits and if your flu shot is covered in full. 

If you’re uninsured, you may still be able to find free or low-cost options in your community. Reach out to your local health centers and state health departments to see what options they have available, and keep an eye out for information on vaccination clinics coming up in your community. 

What vaccines should I get?

Seasonal Flu (Influenza) – Get by the end of October or soon after, every year. 

Shingles (over age 50) – Get two doses within two to six months. 

Pneumonia (over age 65) – Get one-two doses one year apart depending on your age and whether you have already had one dose. 

Though it’s recommended to get most of your vaccines before the end of October, data from the CDC shows that activity peaks highest normally from December – March each year. If you aren’t able to get your shots in during the fall season, don’t fret – it isn’t too late. Reach out to your trusted healthcare provider to see what vaccines are right for you!  

Are vaccines safe?  

Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received vaccines over the last 50 years. Research is ongoing as strains fluctuate, ensuring you and those you love who receive the vaccine each year feel safe and best protected. Don’t forget – getting vaccinated not only helps to protect you, but also others around you that may be more vulnerable, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions. Don’t worry – you won’t catch any diseases after you’ve gotten your vaccine. 

Do vaccines cause side effects?

You may have some temporary side effects after a vaccine is administered, but these are generally mild and only last for a few days. Take a friend or someone you love with you if that makes you feel more comfortable. Be sure before your appointment to talk with your doctor about any allergies, as some people may have allergic reactions to the vaccine. Your trusted healthcare provider will give you guidance on what’s best for your health and any precautions to take. 

Who should I contact in order to get vaccinated?

Reach out to your local county health department to learn more about vaccine requirements and low-cost options. Your trusted primary doctor can also help provide you with guidance on which vaccines are recommended for you. Be sure to also keep an eye out for upcoming vaccine clinics in your area. We’ll be posting clinic information on this page, so be sure to visit often to see the latest clinics in your community.  

Partner Showcase

Thank you to the following partners for participating in our “mini grants” campaign to promote vaccination efforts throughout our region!

 

Additional Resources

This website is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL,  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)) through USAging as part of a financial assistance award to USAging totaling $74,999,835 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official view of, nor and endorsement, by USAging, ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.