Vaccination Clinic for Reading Seniors

The following was submitted by the Council on Aging:

The Reading Council on Aging in partnership with the Reading Health Division will be holding a clinic for Reading residents aged 65 and older who wish to receive a Tdap vaccination. This is a Tetanus vaccine that also protects against Pertussis, more commonly known as “Whooping Cough”. Adults have lost the immunity to Pertussis that was provided to them by their childhood vaccinations. Pertussis is a highly contagious disease characterized by cold symptoms and uncontrolled coughing spells. There may also be periods of vomiting after these coughing spells. Sometimes a signature “whoop” can be heard when a person breathes in, though not always.

Pertussis can be dangerous to infants because they are often too young to have full protection from vaccination.  Pertussis can cause breathing problems, pneumonia, and swelling of the brain (encephalitis), which can lead to seizures and brain damage. It can also cause death, especially in very young infants, but this is rare.

Who should get a Tdap vaccination? Adults should get one shot of Tdap instead of a regular Tetanus shot. It is especially important for adults who have contact with young infants, such as parents, grandparents, healthcare workers, and child care providers to get a single Tdap shot. It does not matter when you received your last regular Tetanus shot.

Clinic Information

Where: - Great Room

When: Tuesday June 26, 2012

Time: 4:00pm – 6:00 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Please call the Senior Center at 781-942-6794 after May 21 to sign up for a vaccination. Transportation is also available.