Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) has some very useful information on the importance of immunizations on their website.  If you carry health insurance Oklahoma, there is a good chance all of the pertinent immunizations are covered, so it’s important to ensure you understand why they are important and know which vaccines you may need.

According to the BCBSOK website, if the last time you received a vaccine was in your childhood, it’s possible that you are missing some important vaccines to keep you in the best shape.  Specifically to adults, they should receive a routine tetanus booster shot every ten years.  Each state has its own requirements that should be followed for getting a child vaccine so you will have to check with your pediatrician.  For many schools, states require written proof that a student has been immunized.  Many consider immunizations the most important public health intervention ever, next to clean drinking water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older children get immunized before they head off to college if they were not as a child.  Some schools even require additional immunizations to prevent the spread of disease on campus.  As your student becomes an adult be sure to keep track of what vaccines they get over time.  This will ensure that they have the most accurate information into adulthood to know if they have kept up with the appropriate vaccines.  If you decide to travel to certain parts of the world you may need additional vaccines to keep you safe.  If you are unsure of vaccines you may need, check with your doctor and keep up with updated records.