153049 - Vaccinations for adults 65 years and over. Part 2: herpes zoster and other vaccines
This free online learning module provides 15 clinical questions and immediate answers about an original peer-reviewed article written for GPs.
Relevance to General Practice- Despite official recommendations on vaccination
in older people, coverage levels in older adults are well below those in children.
- GPs are key in increasing vaccine coverage levels, as one of the most influential drivers of vaccination is a recommendation from the person’s GP.
- Up to one-third of the population is at risk of developing herpes zoster during their lifetime; vaccination is the most effective strategy to protect against both acute zoster and postherpetic neuralgia.
- Most older people are susceptible to pertussis, and infection can have severe consequences in this age group; a pertussis booster vaccination is recommended for all older adults.