According to the American Lung Association, about five percent of Americans were diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) last year. COPD is a term that’s used to describe different chronic respiratory diseases that can make it hard to breathe. Since the condition usually gets worse over time, it’s important to do everything you can to keep your lungs healthy.
5 Vaccines You Need When You Have COPD
1. The COVID-19 Vaccine
People have differing reactions to the COVID-19 virus. These reactions can be influenced by factors such as your current health status, the variant you’ve contracted, and if you’ve had the illness before. When you have COPD, even variants that don’t cause a severe reaction in others can result in you being hospitalized. Studies show that people with COPD and COVID-19 are more likely to be placed on a ventilator and have a 15 percent higher chance of dying from the virus. The vaccine can help to reduce these risks.
Currently, anyone over five years old can get the COVID-19 vaccine. You can also get the booster at set intervals after receiving the first complete dose.
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2. The Flu Vaccine
It’s true that some people have the flu with no issues but that doesn’t mean the virus can’t have some serious complications. Some of the possible complications of the flu include bronchitis, sinusitis, swelling in the middle ear, and brain inflammation. These issues are even more likely for those who already have a chronic illness.
According to recent studies, people who have COPD are more likely to be hospitalized with the flu. They also have a higher risk of developing severe symptoms and complications.
Anyone over the age of 6 months old can get the flu vaccine. Generally, you’ll get the vaccine annually but it’s best to confirm this with your doctor.
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3. The Pneumococcal Vaccine
A pneumococcal disease is any illness that is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. These conditions can include ear, sinus, and blood infections as well as pneumonia. While all of these health problems can result in hospitalization, pneumonia is of particular note because it affects your lungs so significantly. People with COPD may have to be placed on a ventilator when they have pneumonia.
You can get the pneumococcal vaccine from the age of 19. The schedule for this vaccine can vary depending on which one you receive.
4. The Tdap Vaccine
This vaccine is used to prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis. Pertussis, in particular, is of great concern for those with COPD because it causes a cough that makes it difficult to breathe. Though this condition used to affect children more often, more adults are being diagnosed with pertussis. This is what makes it essential for those with COPD to protect themselves.
The vaccine became available for adults recently so it’s good to talk to your doctor about it.
5. The Herpes Zoster Vaccine
The herpes zoster virus causes shingles in older adults. Though this virus doesn’t affect the lungs, studies show that people who have COPD develop shingles more easily. Shingles can be particularly painful so it’s a good idea to prevent it with the vaccine.
The herpes zoster vaccine is available for all adults but is mostly recommended for those who are between the ages of 45 and 61. As always, you should confirm this with your doctor.
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Why Getting Vaccines Is Important
There’s a reason that vaccines are considered to be a key part of healthcare. When you get a vaccine, it triggers your body to produce the antibodies that you’ll need to fight that specific disease. That means you have a reduced chance of getting the illness or suffering from severe complications if you do. Though many vaccines are administered when you’re young, their protection can decrease over time so it’s important to keep up to date on your vaccinations.
Doctors also recommend that people who have certain chronic illnesses like COPD get vaccinated because their respiratory system is compromised. Getting the vaccines listed above reduces your risk of contracting diseases that will affect your breathing even more. In fact, studies show that people with COPD are more likely to be hospitalized and have more fatal outcomes after getting illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, and pneumonia. Your vaccination schedule can vary from others, though, so you should consult with your doctor before scheduling any vaccinations.
When living with COPD, you must put measures in place to remain healthy. Since the condition is progressive, doctors recommend that you avoid any illnesses that are going to put any added stress on your respiratory system. If you haven’t yet, talk to your doctor about which vaccines are best for you.
