Most people relate immunizations/vaccinations with childhood. Remember when they used to do them at school? As parents they are not really something we look forward to either, but we know that it is one of those necessary evils we just get our kids through so they have a better chance of staying healthy.  Just like our parents did for us.

As adults we tend to get busy and focus on other things, unless we are fortunate enough to have exotic travel plans, then we go find out what we need and get it done.

Are you up to date on everything? Do you need another MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) shot? What about your tetanus shot?  They are supposed to be every 10 years.

The topic of immunizations has been an increased amount of media coverage lately due to recently reported cases of mumps and measles close to home.

The Health & Safety Committee thought we would share some information regarding adult immunizations to remind you that we want you to be healthy! Remember, these diseases aren’t just for kids; they should be taken seriously, since in some cases even measles can be fatal.

Yesterday on CBC radio they were talking about how you can protect yourself against the measles virus.

“When the MMR vaccine came out in the 1970s, kids received one dose.  It wasn’t until the 1990’s that authorities recognized that people need a second dose of MMR vaccine to get to immunity levels approaching 99 per cent.  In the mid to late 1990’s, the provinces conducted ‘catch-up’ campaigns to give people a second shot that they missed in the 1970’s.  Nevertheless, some Canadians missed out on the second booster, and as a result, they are vulnerable to getting the measles.”

To read the full article, (right) click & open the link here.

The government of Ontario has a webpage with information and resources to show which vaccines are publicly funded:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/vaccines

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/immunization/docs/immunization_schedule.pdf

Also, there are apps to help you track the immunizations you have had.  This one is for Apple devices but with a search I’m sure you can find others.

https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/canimmunize/id574951915?mt=8

So, even though most of us do not like needles, it might be worth a call, or visit to your Health Care Provider to find out if you need any boosters.

Dust off that paper immunization card and show your kids (or cat or dog) how brave you are.