Doctors urge older people to review vaccination needs

Doctors are advising older people in Styria to check their vaccination status as cases of colds, flu-like infections and influenza increase with the arrival of autumn, ORF reports.

Andrea Grisold, head of the Medical University of Graz’s Department of Hospital Hygiene and Vaccinations, recommends checking vaccination records, especially at an older age. Austria’s vaccination plan recommends that people consider certain vaccinations from the age of 60, including protection against herpes zoster and pneumococcal disease.

The herpes zoster vaccine, which protects against the painful condition commonly known as shingles, is particularly popular among older people because it is free for certain groups, including those aged 60 and over. As a result, supplies are often exhausted. Grisold said new batches regularly arrive and advised people to ask vaccination centres or their family doctor whether the vaccine is available.

Unlike influenza vaccination, the herpes zoster vaccine has no seasonal time limit and can be administered whenever it is available. Grisold said October and November, at the start of the colder season, are a good time to consider the flu vaccine.

Older and immunocompromised people are also advised to seek protection against Covid-19, pneumococcal disease and RSV. RSV viruses are highly contagious, particularly during the colder months, and can cause acute respiratory infections.