Why Do the Elderly Need Vaccinations?

As people age, they become more susceptible to illnesses and infections. Vaccinations are crucial as they help prevent diseases that could significantly deteriorate the health of elderly individuals.

• Increased Risk of Multiple Diseases: As we get older, our immune system weakens, making the elderly more vulnerable to infections. Vaccinations strengthen the body's defenses, reducing the risk of various diseases that can arise.
• Declining Immune Response with Age: A robust immune system is essential for fighting off illnesses. Elderly individuals with weakened immunity may not effectively combat infections. Vaccinations are vital tools in preventing diseases and reducing the risk of infections.
• Higher Susceptibility to Infections and Complications: Since their bodies cannot respond to pathogens as quickly as younger individuals, vaccinations help reduce the risk of infections and prevent diseases that could lead to severe complications.
• Protecting Loved Ones with Vaccinations: Taking care of the health of elderly family members is crucial. Ensuring they receive vaccinations as recommended by doctors helps create a protective barrier against diseases and strengthens their health. Vaccinated elderly individuals will enjoy better health and an improved quality of life.

Important vaccines for the elderly include:

Influenza Vaccine:

When infected with the flu, there is a risk of severe inflammation that may become uncontrollable, leading to death. The flu vaccine is essential for the elderly as it can:

• Reduce the risk of flu infection: Vaccination decreases the chances of contracting the flu, preventing severe illness.
• Lower the risk of complications: The vaccine reduces the risk of complications such as lung inflammation or pneumonia.
• Decrease the mortality rate: By lessening the severity of symptoms and complications that could lead to death.
• Boost the immune system: The vaccine strengthens the immune response in the elderly, making their bodies better equipped to fight the flu virus.

Price: 660 baht / dose

(price does not include doctor fee and hospital service fee)

Shingles Vaccine:

Shingles, caused by the same virus as chickenpox, often presents as a painful rash with blisters that can persist for months or years after the rash heals, known as Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN). This condition is common in the elderly and significantly impacts their quality of life.

Elderly individuals aged 60 and above who develop shingles are at risk of severe complications such as:

• Pneumonia: Infection that may arise from the spread of the virus.
• Blindness: If the infection reaches the eyes, it can cause blindness.
• Encephalitis: Infection that affects the brain, leading to encephalitis.

The shingles vaccine is crucial for the elderly as it can effectively prevent shingles and reduce the severity of symptoms. This vaccine provides protection for up to 8 years, ensuring long-term protection against infection and related complications.

Price: 6,000 baht / dose

(price does not include doctor fee and hospital service fee)

Pneumonia Vaccine:

Pneumonia, caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, is particularly dangerous for elderly individuals with weakened immune systems or poor health, as they are at high risk of complications. Pneumonia is a leading cause of death among the elderly, with a mortality rate of up to 50% in severe cases or if not treated promptly.

Vaccination against pneumonia plays a critical role in preventing and reducing the risk of this disease in the elderly. The benefits of the pneumonia vaccine include:

• Preventing pneumonia infection: The vaccine stimulates the immune system to combat the bacteria causing pneumonia effectively, reducing the risk of infection.
• Reducing the severity of the disease: Even if vaccinated individuals contract pneumonia, the vaccine helps lessen the severity of symptoms and lowers the chance of complications that might lead to complex treatments or death.

Vaccination against pneumonia is a significant investment in the health care of the elderly, especially those with weakened immune systems. Receiving the vaccine helps prevent and mitigate the impact of pneumonia infections, enhancing the quality of life and reducing the risk of serious illnesses in old age.

Price per dose:

• 13-valent: 2,800 baht
• 15-valent: 3,000 baht
• 23-valent: 1,700 baht