A 65-year-old patient requests a flu vaccine after having a pneumococcal vaccine 10 years ago. What should the plan of care include?

The inclusion of both the influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine in the plan of care for this 65-year-old patient aligns with the recommended immunization guidelines for older adults. Annual vaccination against influenza is advised for all individuals aged 6 months and older, particularly for those in higher risk demographics like older adults, due to their increased susceptibility to severe illness from the virus.

In addition, the pneumococcal vaccine provides crucial protection against pneumonia and other serious infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that adults aged 65 and older receive this vaccine, typically at least once in their lifetime, and the ten-year interval mentioned indicates it may be appropriate for a booster depending on the specific pneumococcal vaccine received initially.

Given that the patient has had the pneumococcal vaccine 10 years ago, the provision of both vaccines during this visit ensures comprehensive preventive care, addressing the patient's potential vulnerability to respiratory illnesses, particularly in the context of influenza season and possible ongoing risks associated with pneumococcal diseases.