Seniors and vaccines
Vaccines become more important for older adults and elderly seniors because the immune system weakens with age. With low immunity, seniors are more likely to catch contagious diseases like the flu or COVID-19. Vaccines offer a measure of prevention, lowering the risk of illness or eliminating it altogether depending on the vaccine.
Understanding shingles
Shingles can affect anyone who has had a case of chickenpox. The chickenpox virus, varicella-zoster, lies inactive inside the body long after chickenpox is gone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 99% of Americans born before 1980 have had a case of the chickenpox.
When the virus awakens or reactivates, shingles occurs, causing painful blisters on the face or body. Generally, a person contracts shingles once; it’s rare that shingles reoccurs later, but it’s possible.
While not 100% effective, the shingles vaccine lowers the risk of the disease and helps lessen the severity of symptoms.
Key facts about vaccine costs
- Free vaccines became available on January 1, 2023
- Out-of-pocket costs were eliminated for people enrolled in a Medicare D plan. Part D vaccines, Tdap and shingles, are now free under the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Vaccines are covered differently depending on the Medicare plan. For Part B members certain vaccines are free and include the flu vaccine, pneumonia and COVID-19. Hepatitis B shots are free to those as risk.
Where to get a shingles vaccine
A shingles vaccine no longer requires a prescription or doctor’s order and can be found in several places. Be sure to verify the location you choose is in your Medicare Part D network.
- Pharmacies
- Doctor’s offices
- Primary care centers
Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.
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