Immunizations aren't just for kids. In addition to your annual flu shot in early fall, you may need to update some other immunizations. 

SHINGLES:  Adults age 50 to 64 need a shingles vaccination. It is a 2-part vaccination. A second vaccination injection needs to be administered 2 months after the first one.  Heads-up: This vaccine can sometimes make people feel a little flu-ish for a day or two. This is because your immune system gets a little revved up by the immunization. 

TDAP (Tetanus, Diptheria, & Pertussis): This booster is needed every 10 years throughout life.  

MEASLES:  If you were immunized for measles within the years 1963 to 1967, it's possible that your measles immunity has decreased or was not developed. This is because two forms of the measles vaccination were used during that period, a "live" and a "killed" vaccine. Only the live version of the vaccine provide to be effective.  If you were immunized against measles in that period, it's a good idea to get your blood tested for measles antibodies.  Those born before 1958 were exposed to two major measles outbreaks are are assumed to be have developed immunity through exposure. 

Annual physical exams and screenings are an important part of wellness. 

The purposes of annual exams and screenings are to:

• Provide and discuss preventive care and wellness recommendations
• Detect disease that has no apparent symptoms (this is called secondary prevention)
• Evaluate efficacy and side effects of any prescription medications you are taking
• To update your clinical data, for tracking physical data trends, which point to medical health threats and progress
• Better understand your disease risks and prevention strategies.

In addition, annual physical exams are important to:

• Better personalize your medical care. Dr. Maybury will know you better and be able to interpret your medical and health data, symptoms, and signs in light of your whole context.  
• Better personalize your wellness goals and needs. When you are seen regularly, Dr. Maybury can better help you reach your health and wellness goals and track changes in your physical health. When you are better known by your physician, Dr. Maybury can help you understand how your life context is contributing to your wellness or disease risk, and how to address those issues. 

If you have not had your annual exam, please call us and schedule your appointment.