Do 70 year olds need a whooping cough vaccine? Experts weigh in.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults aged 19 and older who have not previously received a Tdap vaccine should get a single dose, and adults should receive a booster every 10 years. This means, in short, yes, you should ask your doctor: "Do 70 year olds need a whooping cough vaccine?" as part of their routine healthcare.

Quick Summary

Adults, including those over 70, should get a Tdap vaccine if they haven't had one and receive booster doses every 10 years, according to CDC guidelines. Whooping cough can be severe in older adults, causing serious complications like pneumonia and rib fractures. Vaccination helps protect seniors, whose immunity can wane over time, and also helps prevent the spread of the disease to vulnerable infants.

Key Points

• CDC recommends Tdap for adults: All adults aged 19 and older who haven't previously received a Tdap vaccine should get a single dose.

• Booster shots are necessary: Immunity from childhood whooping cough vaccines fades over time, so adults need booster shots.

• Whooping cough is a risk for seniors: Older adults, including 70 year olds, are at a higher risk for serious complications from whooping cough, such as pneumonia and rib fractures.

• Vaccination protects infants: Getting the Tdap vaccine protects not only yourself but also vulnerable infants who are too young to be fully immunized.

• Tdap vs. Td: The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, while the Td vaccine only covers tetanus and diphtheria. The CDC recommends a Tdap or Td booster every 10 years after the initial Tdap dose.

• Boostrix for older adults: When available, the Boostrix brand of Tdap is recommended for individuals aged 65 and older.

Why the whooping cough vaccine is critical for seniors

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, poses a significant risk to older adults, including those over 70. Immunity from childhood vaccinations wanes over time, leaving seniors vulnerable. Although symptoms in older adults might be milder, the risk of serious complications such as pneumonia and rib fractures increases with age. Getting vaccinated not only protects the individual but also helps create a protective barrier for vulnerable infants who are too young for vaccination. Health authorities, including the CDC, recommend that all adults stay current with their whooping cough vaccination.

What to know about the Tdap vaccine

The Tdap vaccine for adults protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The CDC recommends a single dose of Tdap for adults 19 and older who have not previously received it. Following this, a Tdap or Td booster is recommended every 10 years. However, because pertussis immunity can fade faster, some healthcare providers may suggest more frequent Tdap boosters, especially during outbreaks or for individuals with respiratory conditions. Boostrix Tdap is often preferred for those aged 65 and older, though both Boostrix and Adacel are effective.

Is whooping cough more dangerous for 70 year olds?

Yes, whooping cough can be particularly dangerous for individuals over 70 due to a higher risk of severe complications and longer illness duration. Older adults are more frequently hospitalized for pertussis. Complications can include rib fractures from coughing, pneumonia, significant weight loss, exhaustion, and loss of bladder control. A weakened immune system and existing health conditions common in older adults further increase the risk of severe illness and mortality.

Tdap vs. Td: What's the difference?

The Tdap vaccine covers tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, while the Td vaccine only covers tetanus and diphtheria. Tdap is recommended as a one-time booster for all adults, including those over 70, who haven't had one before. After the initial Tdap, a booster of either Tdap or Td is recommended every 10 years. The pertussis component in Tdap is important for protection and preventing transmission, especially to infants. For those 65 and older, Boostrix Tdap is often suggested when available.

The importance of discussing your vaccination history with your doctor

Because many adults may not know their full vaccination history, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. A doctor can determine if a Tdap vaccine is needed, recommend the best vaccine for your age, and assess individual risk factors like contact with infants or chronic conditions. Getting vaccinated protects personal health and contributes to community well-being, especially for the most susceptible.

Conclusion

To answer the question, yes, 70 year olds and other older adults should strongly consider the whooping cough vaccine (Tdap). This is especially true for those who have never received a Tdap shot or are due for a 10-year booster. With decreasing immunity over time and the increased risk of severe complications from pertussis in older adults, staying up-to-date with vaccinations is vital for healthy aging. The Tdap vaccine protects individuals from serious illness and helps safeguard vulnerable infants. Consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to determine the appropriate vaccine for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should a 70 year old get the Tdap vaccine?

Yes, health officials like the CDC recommend that older adults who have never had a Tdap vaccination get one dose. Additionally, they should receive a booster of Tdap or Td every 10 years to maintain protection against tetanus and diphtheria, which can also include pertussis.

How often does a 70 year old need a whooping cough booster?

After receiving an initial dose of Tdap, a booster of either Tdap or Td is recommended every 10 years. For specific concerns about pertussis, especially during local outbreaks, your healthcare provider may suggest a Tdap booster over a Td.

Is the whooping cough vaccine different for people over 65?

For adults 65 and older, the Boostrix brand of Tdap is specifically FDA-approved and often recommended when feasible. However, the CDC states that any available Tdap vaccine is considered valid and provides protection for this age group.

Are there any risks for older adults getting the Tdap vaccine?

Most older adults tolerate the Tdap vaccine well, with common side effects being mild and lasting only a few days, such as pain or swelling at the injection site. The risks of whooping cough complications, like pneumonia and hospitalization, are much higher for seniors than the risks from the vaccine.

Does Medicare cover the Tdap vaccine for 70 year olds?

Yes, Medicare Part D prescription drug plans typically cover the cost of recommended adult vaccinations like the Tdap vaccine. You should check with your specific plan for details on coverage.

What are the complications of whooping cough for seniors?

Seniors can experience severe complications, including pneumonia, rib fractures from violent coughing, weight loss, and extreme fatigue. Unlike infants, who might not whoop, older adults can have a prolonged cough for months.

What if I can't remember my last Tdap vaccine?

If you are unsure of your vaccination history, you should talk to your healthcare provider. The CDC recommends that any adult who has never received a Tdap vaccine should get a single dose, regardless of the interval since their last tetanus shot.