Which of the following immunizations can ODs administer?

Optometrists in California are authorized to administer certain vaccines as part of their clinical practice, which enhances patient care in optometric settings. The correct choice states that optometrists can administer the influenza vaccine and the herpes zoster vaccine specifically to patients who are 18 years and older. This reflects the regulations that allow licensed optometrists to provide immunizations that are relevant to their practice, particularly focusing on the health concerns of adult populations.

The influenza vaccine is crucial for preventing seasonal flu, especially in adults, while the herpes zoster vaccine helps prevent shingles, a painful condition that affects older adults. By limiting this administration to patients aged 18 and older, the regulations ensure that optometrists are providing vaccines to those who are most at risk for complications from these illnesses.

In contrast, other options do not align with the scope of practice for optometrists under California law. For instance, while Hepatitis B immunization could be beneficial, its administration by optometrists is not universally authorized for all ages. The mumps vaccine is part of a comprehensive immunization schedule typically managed by primary care providers rather than optometrists. Lastly, travel vaccines often require a specialized understanding of epidemiology and specific patient needs that fall outside the usual scope of