The Arc of Western Wayne County: Serving people with disabilities

The Take Charge Helpline

Immunizations for Seniors

The flu vaccine, or flu shot, is recommended for adults 50 years of age and older and for people who have close contact with people 50 years of age and over including all household members.  Anyone who has a compromised immune system or a serious long-term health concern such as anemia, heart disease, lung disease, and asthma should also get a flu shot. 

The best time to get a flu shot is from the beginning of October through mid-November.  The flu shot is given once per year and is covered by Medicare.

The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for adults ages 65 and over.  People with lung disease, heart disease, AIDS or HIV, kidney failure, alcoholism, and various other diseases should also get the pneumonia vaccine.  This vaccine is given once in your lifetime.  The pneumonia vaccine is covered by Medicare.

The National Immunization Information Hotline, run by the Center for Disease Control, can provide information about who should be immunized, when they should be immunized, and the risks associated with immunizations.  They can be reached at 800-232-2522.

Phone code: 3203