SHINGLES
Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.
Once a person has had chickenpox, the virus can live, but remain
inactive, in your body. If it becomes active again, usually later in
life, it can cause Shingles. If you've had chickenpox, there is no way
to predict if you'll get Shingles. What's more, the inactive virus
usually has no signs or symptoms. So Shingles can appear at any time
without warning.
It is estimated that over 1 million people get shingles in the United States every year. Of these, 40% to 50% are over the age of 60. Approval of a new vaccine to prevent shingles has recently been made in this country. Zostavax is approved for people 55 years old or older. Come by and speak to the pharmacists at Denton Drug if you are interested in this immunization.
*If you have an allergy to neomycin or gelatin, it is suggested that you do not receive this shot. For more information, speak with the pharmacist on duty at Denton Drug.
FLU
Each year the winter months bring a new season of
influenza and pneumonia to all areas of our country. Denton Drug offers
preventative inoculations for these diseases during September and October
each year. Shots are given in the arm by a trained
professional. You can receive both shots on the same day, one in
each arm.
The flu virus changes annually, resulting in a different strain. Therefore, Denton Drug obtains the latest vaccine prior to the beginning of flu season, making it available before you are exposed to the virus. They are effective for one year.
Currently the Center of Disease Control recommends the the Pneumococcal Vaccination for everyone 6 months of age and older.
*If you have a severe allergic reaction to eggs, it is suggested that you do not receive this shot. For more information, speak with the pharmacist on duty at Denton Drug.
PNUEMONIA
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause mild to severe illness in people of all ages. Signs of pneumonia can include coughing, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing or shortness of breath, chills, or chest ain. Certain people are more likely to become ill with pneumonia.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for:
- Anyone 65 years of age and older
- Adults 19-64 with any of the following conditions:
- Chronic illnesses such as lung, heart, liver or kidney disease; asthma; diabetes or alcolholism
- Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, damaged/absent spleen
- Cochlear implants or cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) leaks
- Adults 19-64 who smoke cigarettes
Pneumococcal vaccinations generally need to be given only once. If there is uncertainty about earlier vaccinations, the vaccine should be administered to anyone 65 or older or anyone else in the high-risk groups.
*If you have a severe allergic reaction to eggs, it is suggested that you do not receive this shot. For more information, speak with the pharmacist on duty at Denton Drug.