What flu vaccine should older adults get?
Dear Savvy Senior, I just turned 65 and would like to learn more about the stronger flu shots I see advertised for older adults. What can you tell me about them and how are they covered by Medicare? —Senior Novice Dear Novice, There are actually three different types of senior-specific flu shots (you only need one) that the CDC is now recommending to people age 65 and... READ MORE
Study pairs flu shot and shingles vaccine
Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a new recommendation: People over age 65 should get a stronger flu vaccine than the general public. Why? Because they’re more likely to suffer serious complications from the flu. That’s because our immune systems don’t work as well as we age. “As we get older, our ability to respond to vaccines —... READ MORE
Vaccines won’t end COVID-19 right away
Don’t even think of putting the mask away anytime soon. Despite the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines in December, it could take several months — probably well into 2021 — before things get back to something close to normal in the U.S. and Americans can once again go to the movies, cheer at an NBA game or give Grandma a hug. “If you’re fighting a battle and the cavalry is on the... READ MORE
Don’t miss out on the flu vaccine this year
An estimated 80,000 Americans died of flu and its complications last winter — the disease’s highest death toll in at least four decades. The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Robert Redfield, revealed the total in a recent interview with the Associated Press. Flu experts knew it was a very bad season, but at least one found the size of the estimate... READ MORE
New shingles vaccine boosts protection
Q: I recently read that the new shingles vaccine might be better than the older vaccine. I did have one shot of the older vaccine about seven years ago. Should I get this new one? A: Shingles is caused by the same virus — the varicella zoster virus — that causes chickenpox. Once you have had chickenpox, the virus that caused it remains alive inside your nerves. It is inactive, but it ... READ MORE
