New Tool Can Assist Adults in Obtaining Recommended Vaccines

While we hear a lot about the importance of getting a flu shot, there are many other vaccines that are recommended for adults. Starting this month, it will be easier to find all of the vaccinations you need. The HealthMap Vaccine FinderExit Disclaimer is a free online service that helps you locate nearby vaccine providers (such as pharmacies and health clinics) by entering your address or ZIP Code.

Building on a Record of Success

In addition to the flu vaccine, the HealthMap Vaccine Finder (previously called the HealthMap Flu Vaccine Finder) now includes locations that provide 10 other vaccines, allowing you to search for providers who offer the following vaccines: hepatitis A; hepatitis B; HPV (human papillomavirus); MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella); varicella (chickenpox); Td (tetanus and diphtheria); Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis); meningococcal; pneumococcal; and zoster (shingles). This builds on the success of the HealthMap Flu Finder, which lists more than 50,000 locations across the country that offer flu vaccinations. Over 125,000 consumers have used the HealthMap Vaccine Finder since August 2012.

Improving Adult Access to Vaccines to Improve Preventive Care

The HealthMap Vaccine Finder will make vaccination easier and more convenient, and help to increase routine adult vaccinations, which are currently below the Healthy People 2020 targets. The Department of Health and Human Services supports this initiative as part of its investment in building a better system of prevention for adults.

Vaccines Protect the Health of People Living with HIV/AIDS

This new and innovative technology can be a life-saving tool for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). All individuals should speak with their health care provider about which vaccinations are appropriate based on their age, health status, and lifestyle. This is particularly important for PLWHA, who may suffer additional complications from certain vaccine-preventable diseases due to their HIV/AIDS status. For example, coinfection with hepatitis B can lead to serious medical complications such as increased risk for liver-related morbidity and mortality. PLWHA also are at increased risk for serious influenza-related complications, infection with invasive pneumococcal disease, complications from varicella (chicken pox), and complications from herpes zoster (shingles)? Share your thoughts and experiences below!