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Updated 01/26/2012 08:56 AM

Smart Living: One shot for a healthy life

By: Ivanhoe Broadcast News

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Avoiding symptoms like bad coughs, sneezing and congestion all come at various costs, but thousands of adults still go without the recommended vaccinations every year.

Studies show only one-third of adults take the flu shot during the season.

Other more dangerous diseases are also being put on the back burner. The most forgotten illness is chickenpox. It’s not just for kids. In fact, doctors say adults are 10 times more likely to be hospitalized when they have chickenpox than children. The CDC recommends two doses of the vaccine if you’ve never had it.

Those 60 years old or older are not off the hook. One million adults get shingles every year. It’s caused by the same virus as chickenpox. It can stay dormant for years and reactivate, causing severe pain. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over the age of 60.

Finally, there’s whooping cough. For years, one shot as a child was considered enough, but doctors say it’s becoming more of an adult problem. They suggest adults, especially parents, have one t-dap shot followed by a tetanus booster every 10 years.

These tips will help you protect yourself so you can protect those who need you most.

Every Monday and Thursday YNN's Jennifer Borget offers lifestyle reports that help families make decisions about careers, finances, nutrition, fitness and parenting with our Smart Living.