The USPS Health and Wellness team wants employees to know about the importance of getting vaccinated, even in adulthood.
According to Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccine-preventable diseases and infections, such as measles and diphtheria, can cause long-term illness, hospitalization or even death.
Vaccines, which are typically administered orally or as an injection, produce immunity against certain disease-causing organisms in your body. Employees should consult a doctor or health care provider to discuss which vaccines are appropriate for them.
Vaccines are available for the following viruses and infections, and more:
- Shingles (Herpes Zoster): A viral disease that can appear as a painful skin rash with blisters
- Hepatitis A: A viral liver disease that can cause mild to severe symptoms
- Hepatitis B: Another virus that affects the liver
- Pertussis: A highly contagious respiratory disease, also known as whooping cough
- Pneumococcal: A bacterial infection that affects ears and sinuses, as well as the bloodstream, and can cause pneumonia
- Tetanus: A serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck
The CDC website has a recommended vaccine schedule for adults 19 and older.
The Wellness LiteBlue page has more information to help employees maintain their physical, emotional and financial health.