V. is for vaccines (and viruses)

It should be no surprise (or fake news for that matter) that there are quite a few viruses making headlines today. We are all well aware of COVID, and now there is a reemergence of monkeypox and (according to the CDC) shingles is on the rise. Fortunately, there are some very good vaccines available that can prevent and/or fight these infections fast and effectively. Here are five (V.) important and available vaccines that may protect adults and particularly women of childbearing age.

i. MONKEYPOX

Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus -–the same family of viruses that causes smallpox. There are no treatments specifically for monkeypox, although research is ongoing. Because the viruses that cause monkeypox and smallpox are similar, antiviral drugs developed to protect against smallpox may be used to treat monkeypox as well.

However, there are two (2) approved vaccines that are expected to provide a good level of protection against monkeypox for those who may be at high risk for contracting the virus. Talk to your doctor/provider about treatment and vaccine options if you think you may be at risk or have been exposed.

ii. COVID

The COVID 19 virus has now been present in all our lives for a number of years now. Luckily, we are making great strides in prevention, treatment and management of this virus that has caused worldwide unrest. Although the morbidity and mortality of COVID has diminished, it is still present and should not be ignored.

And, while testing is readily available and can be performed from home or at numerous centers, staying up to date with vaccine protocol recommendations will protect you and those around you from more severe COVID related illnesses, hospitalizations and death. It is believed that the vaccine is safer than risking not only an acute viral illness, but also the potential for long term adverse health effects. Vaccinating against COVID is recommended for people who are pregnant, are planning to become pregnant and who are breastfeeding. Administering the vaccine during pregnancy and while breastfeeding can prevent illness and protect the baby. There are several vaccines available, and you should contact your local medical center, pharmacy or provider for additional COVID vaccine and/or booster information.

iii. TDAP

The Tdap vaccine is a combined vaccine for Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (whooping cough). This vaccine is administered in childhood and then again during pregnancy. The reason for administration during pregnancy is to confer passive immunity to the newborn. Often, it is advisable to recommend boosting people who are going to have close contact with the newborn as well.

iv. HPV

The HPV virus, widely prevalent, has been associated with genital warts, cervical dysplasia and cancer. There is a vaccine to help diminish the spread of HPV and it is extremely effective. Initially, the vaccine was advised for people up to age 26 but the age inclusion has been expanded to 45. The number of ‘doses’ increases based on age. Even if an individual has received the [Gardasil] vaccine, they should still be mindful of safe sex practices (abstinence or condom use) and women should still have routine screening pap smears.

v. VARICELLA (chickenpox) + SHINGLES

Children receive/are offered the varicella vaccine at a very young age. And, although this usually protects them against chickenpox throughout their life, there is a possibility of developing a reactivation of this virus called shingles. Shingles is more common in adults and typically presents as a burning painful rash over a localized skin area. The shingles vaccine is a series of 2 injections offered to those over the age of 50 and is proven to be very effective.

 Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. Discuss all/any vaccine options with your personal doctor.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.