Pneumococcal disease also causes about 12,500 deaths, about half of which could be prevented with the vaccine. Many other illnesses can also be prevented. But adults who get chickenpox are 25 times more likely to die from complications than children. In 1998, almost one-third of reported measles cases occurred in adults. The condition can cause middle ear infection, severe diarrhea, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain and seizures.
Parents are often very careful to get regular immunizations for their children.
Yet, many adults don t keep up with their own immunization needs. A tetanus booster is needed every five to ten years. A flu shot should be given every year to patients 50 and older and also to younger people with a chronic illness, pregnant women, and those who have contact with patients at risk for flu complications. A pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for patients 65 and older. Adults who did not have chickenpox should consider getting a varicella vaccine.