August is both summer’s “last hurrah” and an onramp to a new school year. Between the onset of a new school season and transitioning from outdoor sun to indoor fun, it makes sense that August is National Immunization Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to review what health experts say so you can determine what works best for your family.

What the Past Has Taught Us

Last year introduced us to a “tripledemic”—a collision of the flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19. Health experts anticipate much of the same in the coming fall and winter months and advise taking precautions. There is now an RSV vaccine, so talk to your health care professional to find out if it’s available in your area and what vaccines, if any, might be appropriate for you and your family. Doctors may advise specific considerations if anyone in your household has health concerns or you have members who are more susceptible to certain illnesses due to their age.

Remember, other common-sense precautions can also help prevent contracting and spreading any of these viruses, such as frequent hand washing and surface cleaning, and limiting your family’s exposure to crowded indoor activities.

Vaccines for School-aged Children

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has guidelines for recommended vaccines for children from infancy through teenage years. Your child’s school may have sent home information on required vaccines for attendance. If you have kept your child’s vaccines up to date, you may be all set!

Protection for Adults

Vaccines aren’t just for children. If you or anyone in your household is 55 or over, you may want to discuss options with your doctor. In addition to vaccines and boosters for respiratory viruses, your health care provider can counsel you on whether the shingles vaccine makes sense for you or others who are over age 50. It’s also a good time to check on your tetanus booster, which adults should receive every 10 years.

Keeping immunizations straight for your household can seem overwhelming, but free annual wellness checks through your Transocean benefits can help take the sting out of vaccine management as we plunge into the cold weather months head. And the best part? Transocean’s medical plans cover most age-recommended vaccines at 100% with no deductible as part of your preventive care benefits.