The last two years have taught us the importance of getting vaccinated. Vaccinations can reduce serious infections, protect against viruses, and prevent death. The COVID-19 global health pandemic has brought the importance of getting vaccinated to the forefront. However, the COVID-19 vaccine isn’t the only one you should be getting as an adult. Influenza is an awful sickness that can change from year to year, and those yearly flu shots come in clutch when the fall and winter respiratory virus season hits. It’s important to talk to your doctor and discuss what vaccines you should get so you can stay healthy and protected.

Always make sure you discuss any concerns you may have with an established and certified doctor. There is plenty of misinformation regarding vaccines, and unfortunately, this has caused many people to distrust the medical advice from their primary care providers. It’s also worth acknowledging that many BIPOC members of the LGBTQ+ community don’t have a lot of trust in the medical system, and historically speaking, it isn’t hard to blame anyone.

To get the full effect of any vaccine, the entire series of vaccines needs to be taken. If you started a round but did not complete it, you may not be protected and therefore need to restart the series. Have your doctor consult your medical record and make sure everything is up to date.  

These are some vaccines that you should talk to your doctor about and see if they are right for you:

Vaccines for health prevention: 

• COVID-19 (2 dose series + 2 boosters – including a bivalent booster)
• Monkeypox (2 dose series)
• Meningitis (2 + 1 dose series) 
• HPV (3 dose series) 
• Hepatitis C (3 dose series)

If you plan to travel out of the country, be sure to consult with your doctor and see if there are any vaccines you should take as you prepare for your trip.

If you are traveling, you may want to talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated for additional viruses. Some vaccines are a requirement for entry into other countries. Some examples of travel related vaccines include:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Yellow Fever
• Malaria

It’s a sad reality that members of the LGBTQ+ community are more susceptible to contracting the COVID-19 virus and are more likely to be immunocompromised. Whether you are traveling, going back to the nightclubs, or looking to hook up, it’s important to make sure you are fully vaccinated and protected for all the different viruses. This is not only for your own health and protection, but that of your sexual partners and those you share a space with. Always remember to practice safe sex and stay protected.  

As mentioned earlier, making sure you get the full round of the needed vaccines will ensure their efficacy. Leading by example and showing that you’re vaccinated will also help encourage others to speak with their doctor about their vaccination status. 

This is not medical advice. HomoCulture strongly recommends you speak with your doctor or primary care physician about the vaccines that are right for you. Some people may be allergic to vaccines. Some vaccines need time before and after getting other vaccines, meaning they cannot be combined.