Smoking and vaping can have these detrimental effects on fertility, doctors warn

Smoking tobacco products has been proven to have negative effects on fertility, according to research.

That includes vaping in addition to traditional cigarettes.

For those who are concerned about fertility or looking to start a family, experts recommend refraining from smoking and vaping.

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Courtney D. Lynch, PhD, a doctor of maternal fetal medicine at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, confirmed with Fox News Digital that it has been "well-established" that smoking has an "adverse impact on both natural and medically assisted conception."

"While the human data on vaping and fertility are sparse, animal data suggest that vaping is also problematic," she said. "Nicotine is a well-established reproductive and developmental toxicant."

Smoking and vaping exposes the embryo to certain harmful compounds, according to Lynch.

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The nicotine in vapes and cigarettes is known to impair the functioning of the cilia in the fallopian tubes, she noted.

This then impairs the "proper transport" of the embryo to the uterus when attempting pregnancy, and it also increases the risk of a tubal or extra uterine pregnancy, according to Lynch.

Smoking and vaping can also alter gene expression, the doctor added.

Theodore Wagener, PhD, director of the Center for Tobacco Research and co-leader of the Cancer Control Program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, referred to scientific literature that suggests smoking "clearly negatively effects fertility."

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In an animal study published by the National Institutes of Health, vaping was shown to exert "harmful effects" during the implantation process of pregnancy, potentially leading to "various pathologies in the offspring."

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"In women, smoking damages egg quality and quantity while accelerating egg loss, leading to earlier menopause and increased risks of fertility treatment failure, miscarriage and menstrual irregularities," Wagener told Fox News Digital.

For men, smoking can impair fertility by reducing sperm count and quality, damaging DNA and "disrupting testosterone production, which can result in erectile dysfunction," Wagener noted.

"For vaping, the scientific literature is limited, but it may similarly impact hormone levels, cause DNA damage and increase erectile dysfunction," he added.

Lynch and Wagener agreed that quitting all nicotine and tobacco products could help improve fertility while limiting exposure to environmental smoke.

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5 prayers to ease election anxiety shared by religious leaders

This election season, it's natural to feel a sense of anxiety and loss of control during such a pivotal time of transition.

Faith leaders from different traditions and backgrounds shared insight on how to fully put one's trust in God when things feel out of control. They also shared the specific Bible verses and personally created prayers they turn to for comfort and to ease worries.  

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Read on for their thoughts conveyed to Fox News Digital this November. 

Troy A. Miller, president and CEO of National Religious Broadcasters, based in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital about the specific verses he turns to when he is feeling anxiety about issues, including the upcoming election. 

He mentioned these words from scripture: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7). 

"You have probably given Nov. 5 considerable thought: how to vote, when to vote and what the results will mean for America," he said. These verses "give us clear guidance on experiencing peace in all circumstances." 

By seeking God's will, asking for help and remembering that He is in charge, "we will discover 'the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,'" Miller said.

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"As we faithfully pray for our country and vote in alignment with our values, let us place our concerns safely in the care of our Father in Heaven, who holds the nation and the world in His hands," he said. 

Işık Abla is senior pastor of Dream Church International in Virginia Beach and the author of many Christian books. She told Fox News Digital, "In these uncertain times, it is crucial to rest in the sovereignty of God, trusting that He is at work, even when outcomes are unclear."

She noted this passage: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). 

"While opinions may differ and emotions run high, believers can anchor their hearts in the peace that surpasses understanding, knowing that God's plan transcends human decisions," she said. 

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When a person is stressed or does not know what to do, "prayer becomes a powerful way to calm minds and seek divine wisdom," Abla said. 

"No matter the results, God is faithfully orchestrating all things for His purpose and glory," she also said.

Pastor Jesse Bradley of Grace Community Church in Auburn, Washington, reminded others that "Jesus is our rock in times of uncertainty" and that He is our "Prince of Peace in times of transition and our Good Shepherd in times of stress." 

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He cited this verse: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8).

Said Bradley, "Nothing can separate us from the love of God."

During times of transition, God's word does not change, Bradley said. 

"The Gospel - that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the grave - is always good news," he said. "God will never leave us or forsake us. Trials will pass. God's grace is sufficient. God's promises stand firm." 

Bradley also wrote his own prayer for those who may be struggling with anxiety during these times, and shared it with Fox News Digital. 

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"Father God, thank you for your presence. You are the God of comfort and the source of our joy. Our lives are filled with purpose, and your passion is a fire in our souls," the prayer begins. 

"Jesus, we choose to abide with you today. You have overcome the world. We trust you. We ask for compassion, wisdom and courage as we serve our neighbors and glorify You. Forgive us Lord of our sins, we pray, and come heal our land. We ask in Jesus' name. Amen." 

Rabbi Daniel Rowe of Aish, a worldwide Jewish organization dedicated to inspiring "people to live more thoughtful, spiritual and impactful lives," shared a prayer he wrote with Fox News Digital.

His prayer highlights the need to trust in God and to always remember the humanity of people who are on the "other side" of an issue.

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"God of all the world, I find myself confronted by fears of what the future will bring and feelings of resentment, distrust and dislike of those whose views I oppose. Please help me to realize that I need to stop playing Your role and please help me to play my part in service of You, of my fellow citizens of this great nation, and of all of mankind."

"Please remind me that elections are only short-lived. Please help me realize that while our opponents have their faults and flaws, so do we all. Please help me see that they, like us, want the good of the country and that our destiny is tied together, united indivisible under You."

His prayer continues, "Please help me realize that no matter the outcome, I must strive to be a force for bringing unity and good to the world, and to realize that I am a character in Your great book of history. Please help me know my role, play my role, and please keep us all safe and united — bringing out the best in one another and building our future together."

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Election anxiety leads many Americans to avoid family and friends, survey finds

The presidential election is already stressful for most Americans – and these stressors can trickle down into relationships.

A new poll from the American Psychological Association (APA) found that 77% of Americans believe the future of our nation is a "significant source of stress," along with the economy (73%) and the upcoming election (69%).

The "Stress in America" online survey, which polled 3,000 U.S. adults of different political affiliations in August 2024, analyzed potential fallout from election results, including in people's relationships.

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About one-third (32%) of adults said the political climate has caused a strain between themselves and family members — while 30% have limited their time spent with family members who don’t share the same values.

Half of U.S. adults admitted that tensions around social and political topics make them want to connect less with others, and 28% claimed they have "nothing in common" with people who have different political opinions.

Another August 2024 survey by LifeStance Health – a mental health care network headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona – found that 44% of Americans have experienced conflicts in their personal lives due to political or election-related discussions.

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Almost a quarter of the 1,052 surveyed adults had considered ending a friendship due to opposing political views, while 18% had done so.

Political affiliation can also come into play when it comes to dating.

The APA found that 46% of adults would not date someone with different political opinions, split almost evenly between men and women.

Half of Gen Z respondents in LifeStance’s survey said they consider "political compatibility" to be an important factor in dating, compared to 42% of millennials, 31% of Gen X and 29% of baby boomers.

One-third (33%) of all respondents claimed they would not date someone who disagreed with their political views, while 28% would consider it a "deal-breaker."

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Almost a quarter of Gen Z and millennials have ended a romantic relationship due to at least one political disagreement.

MK Clarkin, a licensed clinical social worker and executive clinical director at LifeStance Health in St. Louis, Missouri, said she finds it "interesting" that younger Americans such as Gen Z prioritize political like-mindedness in their relationships above other generations.

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"These generations share the highest likelihood of experiencing moderate to significant distress around the election cycle, so it stands to reason that they align their relationships with their values and political views," she told Fox News Digital.

For those who are anxious about engaging in political discussions with friends or family members who have different opinions, Clarkin recommends setting "clear and kind boundaries."

"That could sound like, ‘I am so glad to see you, let’s talk about something else. I want to hear about how your new job is going,’" she suggested as an example. 

"Or, ‘I get the sense you have a lot to say about the election. I’m going to excuse myself from this conversation, but I’d love to connect with you later and catch up about other parts of life.'"

Clarkin also encouraged the use of "I feel" statements to "express your views without escalating tension."

"Regardless of what side of the political aisle someone stands on, election seasons tend to be tough on mental health," she said. 

"It's hard to find an area of our personal lives not directly impacted by who wins an election — personal finance, access to health care, childcare and education, to name a few."

Americans have faced a "highly charged" political climate, which has led to the "erosion of civil discourse and strained our relationships with our friends and families," APA CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, noted in a press release.

"But isolating ourselves from our communities is a recipe for adding more stress to our lives," he said. 

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"We must remember that the most extreme voices are often the loudest, and that the majority of adults share similar values and concerns."

Despite these tensions, healthy social connections are "important for managing stress and overall health," Dr. Lynn Bufka, APA’s deputy chief of professional practice and a licensed psychologist in Maryland, told Fox News Digital.

Bufka noted that Americans have more in common than they might think, as 82% of U.S. adults believe it's important to have conversations with people who don't share the same values.

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"Try to understand the person you’re speaking with and help them feel safe and understood," she suggested.

"Listen to understand, not to defend your point of view," Bufka went on. "We do not have to agree on everything."

People should look for broader qualities in others beyond politics, such as shared values in areas like kindness, respect and support, she advised.

Added Bufka, "Encouraging open dialogue and empathy, even amid disagreement, can enrich relationships and foster resilience against the stressors that come from political division."

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Modern Family’s Julie Bowen gets real about chronic dry eye: What to know about the progressive condition

Itchy, red, irritated eyes could be a symptom of many things, but chronic dry eye is a common culprit.

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough quality tears, leading to burning, stinging and general ocular discomfort, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Julie Bowen, best known for her role as Claire Dunphy on the sitcom "Modern Family," spoke with Fox News Digital in an on-camera interview about her recent diagnosis with the condition.

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While the actress was on set for the new comedic thriller "Hysteria!", she noticed that her contacts would dry out due to the "smoky" environment, she said.

During a break from shooting, Bowen went to visit her eye doctor, who told her she had dry eye, a progressive condition that’s mostly caused by inflammation.

"You can’t just wet the top of your eyeball and treat the inflammation, which is what I had been trying to do [with eyedrops]," she said.

Bowen was prescribed an anti-inflammatory eye drop, Xiidra, and used it as prescribed twice a day for about nine months.

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Although it wasn’t an immediate fix, Bowen reported that over time, she was able to keep her contact lenses in "longer and longer."

"I’m able to not feel my eyeballs," she said. "One of the eye doctors I was working with … told me, ‘You’re not supposed to feel your eyeballs.’ And I was like, ‘Oh, right!’ If you feel your eyeballs, something’s wrong."

Dr. Derek Cunningham, director of Dell Laser Consultants in Austin, Texas, told Fox News Digital in an interview that dry eye comes in "all different forms."

Cunningham, who treats people from all over the U.S. at Dell Laser’s dedicated dry eye center, called dry eye the "potentially most prevalent disease" in North America.

Modern lifestyles, including frequent computer use, have driven an uptick in dry eye cases, as the eye is the "highest-friction area of the human body," the doctor said.

"You blink 10,000 times a day," he went on. "The tear film is bringing nutrients to your cornea."

"So, your tears are not just a lubricant — they're actually the lifeline of your cornea and the front of your eye."

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As people age, fewer tears are produced due to hormonal changes, according to Cunningham – and women suffer from dry eye more than men for this reason.

Young workers in forced-air environments, like offices, are most at risk, he noted.

"When you stare at a computer screen, your blink rate can go down to two to four times a minute; on average, it’s supposed to be about 20 to 40 times a minute," he said. "We sit at the computer all day without hydration, and that builds up inflammation over time."

Typing on a computer for a long period of time is "literally like sprinting for your eyes," the expert noted. 

Dry eye can have different symptoms based on gender, ethnicity and other variables, but some "hallmark" signs are consistent dryness, fluctuating vision and overall awareness of your eyes throughout the day, according to Cunningham.

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"You should not notice that your eyes are in your head," he said. "And if you notice they're there, that's most commonly dry eye."

When treating dry eye, there is "no one product for everybody," said Cunningham.

Some options include anti-inflammatory eye drops, tearduct plugs, intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) and other laser treatments.

While artificial tears can be a "refreshing tool," prescription steroids and anti-inflammatory drops are needed to address the inflammation, Cunningham said.

Skin is also "intimately involved" in dry eye, Cunningham noted, as inflammation in the skin, or rosacea, can have a direct correlation to the condition.

"We have to look more at the skin in your face in order to truly manage dry eye," the doctor said.

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Bowen encourages everyone to get routine eye exams, particularly those with dry eye symptoms. As the condition is progressive and will worsen with time, it's important to "get ahead" of it, she said.

"It’s not going to get better if you’re not treating the inflammation," Bowen added.

Making lifestyle changes — like eating a well-rounded diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and exercising regularly — can also help, Cunningham said.

"A little bit of caffeine will help dry eye, but a lot of caffeine makes it way worse," the expert noted, while drinking water doesn't seem to have an impact.

Cunningham added, "Getting on things early and stopping the progression is the key."

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Dogs who comfort sick children, leap out of helicopters are nominated for American Humane award

Five standout dogs are helping to improve the lives of others — including in the areas of physical and mental health. Now they're being recognized nationally for their work.

The American Humane Hero Dog Awards announced the standouts to shed light on their remarkable efforts in a variety of areas. The organization, headquartered in Washington, D.C., was founded in 1877 and is the country’s first national humane organization committed to animals. 

The annual nationwide competition identifies America’s best dogs in five key categories: military dogs; law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs. 

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Beginning in April, hundreds of dog owners across the country submitted the names of their pets for consideration for "Hero Dog."

The winning dog in each category will be honored at a gala in Palm Beach, Florida, in November — where the animals will walk, sniff and run down a red carpet. 

American Humane president and CEO Robin Ganzert, PhD, told Fox News Digital that the canine heroes this year are "unsung heroes."

"I’m in awe of these inspiring canine heroes, who sniff out criminals, leap out of helicopters, comfort sick children and more," she said. "All five dogs are a winner in their category and deserve to be recognized for serving their communities and our country."

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She added, "American Humane is honored to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes who make the world a better, kinder place."

Ahead of its annual event, American Humane announced the finalists. Here are the top five dogs in their respective categories. 

Niki is a five-year-old Belgian Malinois-German shepherd mix who lives in Seattle, Washington. 

She started with the U.S. Coast Guard in 2021 and helps detect explosives alongside her human partner, Petty Officer Alicia Horn. 

Niki has completed over 250 high-stakes operations and logged more than 4,000 working hours protecting the American public, per the American Humane. She helps protect the safety and security of the Washington State Ferries and has boarded over 250 vessels thus far. 

The shepherd mix is known for being a hero in her community. She often visits schools to help educate children about military dogs and their handlers. 

Bo is an 18-month-old bloodhound male from Gastonia, North Carolina, who works with the Gastonia Police Department. Though still young, he's been saving lives and solving crimes since he was just eight months old, according to the American Humane. 

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He started his career in law enforcement in 2023 after the police department handpicked him from a litter of puppies — a move his handler Sgt. David Rowland is happy about, he said. 

Rowland brought Bo home during his training to help strengthen their bond — and his family took a liking to him. 

A bloodhound breed was new for the Gastonia Police Department, American Humane noted, as the department had only ever had German shepherds and other classic law enforcement breeds prior to Bo. 

Bloodhounds, known for being easily frightened and gentle giants at heart, are not the typical K-9 officer pick — but American Humane said Bo broke the mold. 

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Although still terrified of Halloween decorations, Bo is able to approach and comfort people he tracks down — making him a secret weapon. Since he began working, Bo has tracked down a missing 11-year-old child with autism and a 7-year-old kidnapping victim. He's also found many lost senior citizens. 

Sampson is an 11-year-old golden retriever service dog up for an American Humane Hero Dog Award. 

The service dog based in Sierra Vista, Arizona, recently retired after spending years with his other half — a woman named Joey who was in an accident in 2006. She suffered a traumatic brain injury and over 23 broken bones. 

For almost a decade, Sampson was by Joey’s side helping her recover and manage a new way of life. 

Joey told American Humane that Sampson learned over 245 commands to help her with her recovery. He was even able to go into a medicine cabinet, open it, grab the correct medication and carry it to Joey, followed by a bottle of water to swallow the pills. 

When Joey decided to pursue a neuroscience degree after her accident, she encountered issues with getting Sampson into science labs, as there were concerns about contamination and safety hazards. 

After she fought hard to find ways to include Sampson, he took on the nickname of "Science Service Dog." Today, the pair advocates for service dog handlers in science while Sampson spends his golden years off-duty, according to American Humane. 

A nine-year-old Rhodesian ridgeback male dog is the top therapy dog nominated for the American Humane Hero Dog Award this year. 

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Dayo, of Dublin, California, began his life as a puppy companion to a baby cheetah named Pancake at the Wildlife Safari in Winston, Oregon. 

Dayo and the cheetah were born on the same day. They grew up together as pseudo-siblings until Pancake tragically passed away in 2017 from health complications. 

After officials decided to remove Dayo from the zoo, he was placed with an owner named Liz — who put his lovable personality and emotional intelligence to good use as a therapy dog, according to American Humane. 

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Today, Dayo brings love and hope to people in need at several life-changing facilities, such as the George Mark Children’s House, Camp Erin, Children’s Hospital and more. 

Penny is a four-year-old mixed breed dog from Louisville, Kentucky, and was named a finalist in the shelter dog category. 

Penny was rescued in 2020 after she was thrown out of a moving car and left on the side of the road, according to American Humane. 

After making a recovery from what appeared to be long-term abuse, Penny was fostered by two owners. The two high school teachers loved the three-legged dog at first sight, American Humane said. 

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For over a year, the foster parents helped Penny relearn how to walk — even carrying her in a backpack or stroller when necessary. They ended up adopting her into their home. 

Today Penny shows no signs of physical or emotional trauma. She's described as trusting, loving and gentle. 

She works as a therapy dog for children of all ages and is an advocate for stricter anti-animal abuse laws, per the American Humane. 

The winner of the 2024 American Humane Hero Dog Award will be announced on Nov. 8. 

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Parents trust AI for medical advice more than doctors, researchers find

Artificial intelligence is gaining more of parents' trust than actual doctors.

That's according to a new study from the University of Kansas Life Span Institute, which found that parents seeking information on their children’s health are turning to AI more than human health care professionals.

The research, published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology, also revealed that parents rate AI-generated text as "credible, moral and trustworthy."

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More than 100 parents ranging from 18 to 65 years old were asked to rate text generated by either a human doctor or ChatGPT (the AI chatbot made by OpenAI) under the supervision of an expert.

The study concluded that ChatGPT is "capable of impacting behavioral intentions for medication, sleep and diet decision-making." 

There was also "little distinction" between ChatGPT and the experts on benchmarks of perceived morality, trustworthiness, expertise, accuracy and reliance, the study found.

But when differences were seen, ChatGPT's responses were rated higher in trustworthiness and accuracy, with participants saying they would be more likely to rely on the chatbot's information.

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Lead study author Calissa Leslie-Miller, a doctoral student in clinical child psychology at the University of Kansas, noted that the research began right after the launch of ChatGPT.

"We had concerns about how parents would use this new, easy method to gather health information for their children," she wrote in a press release.

"Parents often turn to the internet for advice, so we wanted to understand what using ChatGPT would look like and what we should be worried about."

Leslie-Miller said the results were surprising to the researchers, as it was early on in ChatGPT’s availability.

"We’re starting to see that AI is being integrated in ways that may not be immediately obvious, and people may not even recognize when they’re reading AI-generated text versus expert content," she noted.

Although ChatGPT can "work well in many cases," the AI model "isn’t an expert" and can still generate wrong information, the researcher cautioned.

"In children's health, where the consequences can be significant, it's crucial that we address this issue," she said. 

"We're concerned that people may increasingly rely on AI for health advice without proper expert oversight."

Leslie-Miller suggested that AI users be cautious of chatbot-provided information, and that they should only rely on information that’s "consistent with expertise that comes from a non-generative AI source."

Dr. Harvey Castro, an ER physician and AI expert in Texas, told Fox News Digital that he understands why parents might turn to tools like ChatGPT for "quick health care advice," as the technology has become "increasingly woven into our lives."

"The immediacy and convenience of AI can be incredibly appealing, especially for busy parents seeking answers at all hours," he said.

Castro agreed with the researchers that combining human expertise and AI is "far more effective" than relying on unsupervised AI, especially when it comes to children's health.

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"AI can provide valuable preliminary information, but it cannot fully grasp a child's unique medical history, subtle symptoms, and nuances from years of specialized training," he noted.

"This is where the human element is irreplaceable — involving a qualified health care professional, specifically a pediatrician, ensures that the information is accurate, personalized and safe," Castro went on. "It's crucial to keep the right human in the loop."

Castro added that a pediatrician can interpret AI-generated information on children's health and make "informed decisions" that AI cannot.

The expert encouraged parents to use AI tools as a starting point when looking for answers about their children's health, but to then "always consult with a pediatrician."

By combining the two, Castro said, health care professionals can "enhance the quality of care, catching nuances that might be missed otherwise."

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"Together, we can leverage technology to provide faster, more efficient care without sacrificing the personal touch and critical thinking that only humans can offer." 

Fox News Digital reached out to the study researchers for comment.

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Anyone over 50 should be getting these 5 vaccines, doctors say

Heading into the thick of flu and COVID season, there have been some recent changes to vaccine recommendations for people over age 50.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently lowered the age for pneumonia vaccinations by 15 years.

Instead of recommending the pneumococcal vaccine for those 65 and over, the shot is now suggested starting at age 50.

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"Everyone over 50 should be thinking about vaccines, because as we age, our immune system can become more vulnerable," Dr. Susannah Hills, surgeon and assistant professor at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City, told Fox News Digital.

When choosing which vaccinations to get, it is also important to consider personal risk, she said. 

"Are there underlying health conditions like diabetes, immunodeficiency or cancer? If so, getting vaccinated becomes even more important."

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To help people 50 and older keep track of immunization guidance for their age group, Fox News Digital gathered insights from several infectious disease experts.

The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older gets a flu vaccine every year, including those 50 and up.

Dr. Jennifer Dunphy, a public health doctor in Los Angeles, California, noted that the flu vaccine is known to significantly reduce deaths and hospitalizations (from 40% to 52%) in the 50 and older population. 

"It is recommended to get the vaccine at the end of summer, preferably in September, before the weather changes and viruses become more common," she told Fox News Digital. 

Common side effects include body aches and low-grade fever, the doctor noted.

"In some cases, there are very rare but more serious side effects that may impact the nervous system," Dunphy said. 

"The benefits of the vaccine for most people over 50 will outweigh any risks, but it is recommended to talk to your doctor."

The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older is vaccinated against COVID-19 and receives an updated vaccine each year, typically in the fall before the end of October. 

The agency also advises people 65 and older to receive a second dose of the vaccine.

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"Together with flu and RSV, COVID is part of a triad of respiratory viruses that cause high rates of hospitalization and death in older adults, with increased risk seen with advancing age," Dr. Amy Edwards, an infectious disease expert at UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, told Fox News Digital. 

For the COVID-19 vaccine, it is recommended that people get two full doses spaced at least three weeks apart followed by annual boosters, according to Dunphy.

The boosters are tailored to be effective against the most current strain of the virus, she said. 

"The COVID vaccine works to increase the development of antibodies that fight against exposure turning into infection, and infection from transitioning into serious infection," she said.

"Side effects vary, but are mostly limited to mild, flu-like symptoms."

Some serious adverse effects have been linked to COVID vaccines, including anaphylactic shock, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or pericarditis (inflammation of the lining surrounding the heart), according to the CDC. 

The pneumococcus (pneumonia) vaccine is recommended for children younger than 5 years and adults 50 years or older.

This is an update to previous guidance, which called for vaccines in adults 65 and older.

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This one-time vaccine is designed to protect against bacterial infections that can cause pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis.

The agency recommends giving one of three available vaccines — PCV15, PCV20 or PCV21 — to all adults 50 years or older who have never received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine or who are uncertain of their vaccination history.

"The rate of hospitalizations and death from pneumonia goes up at age 50 and then again by a lot at age 65 years old," Edwards told Fox News Digital. 

"Typically, adults are advised to get a single dose, but some higher-risk adults may get a dose every five years."

Side effects are generally minimal from this vaccine, she noted.

Fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, or redness, swelling, pain or tenderness at the injection site are some possible side effects, according to the CDC.

The Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine helps to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

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Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, has seen a spike in the U.S. in 2024, with more than five times the cases reported at the same time last year.

"All adults should get the tetanus vaccine every 10 years, as that is the longest protection lasts," Edwards advised. 

"Vaccination against whooping cough is sometimes recommended for some older adults, especially those who will spend time with very young children (grandchildren), as infants are at very high risk for death from whooping cough."

The most common side effects after a Tdap vaccination include mild fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, the CDC stated.

Adults should discuss with their doctors about whether this vaccine is necessary.

It is recommended that adults 50 and older receive two doses of Shingrix, the shingles vaccine, two to six months apart, per the CDC.

The vaccine protects against a condition called herpes zoster, more commonly known as shingles.

The infection causes a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which can cause nerve damage, chronic nerve pain and sometimes inflammation of the brain, according to Edwards.

"Shingles becomes more common with each decade past 50," she said.

"This vaccine tends to be kind of rough, with high rates of fever and body aches," Edwards cautioned.

"Many people who have had both say the shingles vaccine is as bad or worse than the mRNA COVID vaccines as far as making you feel bad for a day or two afterward."

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The shingles vaccine is currently administered as a one-time, lifetime dose with no boosters recommended later in life for those vaccinated at around age 50, Edwards noted.

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Experts agree it’s best for each person to discuss a vaccine plan with his or her primary care physician.

Hills added, "Some people may be at higher risk and may need to get these vaccines earlier or may need other vaccines as well."

from Health News Today on Fox News https://ift.tt/f5kaILE

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