Vaccines are not just for your childhood. According to the Immunization Action Coalition, the nation’s premier source of childhood, adolescent and adult immunization information, getting vaccinated can be a lifelong job. You are never too old to strengthen your immune system and protect yourself from disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends these as the top vaccines for adults aged 19 and older.
Influenza
Fall/winter brings the holidays, but it also brings the flu. The CDC recommends that adults get one dose of this vaccine every year for your protection and the protection of others.
Whooping Cough/Pertussis (Tdap)
Tdap is the adult whooping cough vaccine. All women need to get a dose during pregnancy (preferably at 27 to 36 weeks).
Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td)
You should have at least three tetanus and diphtheria toxoid shots sometime in your life, especially if you have ever had a deep or dirty wound. Medical professionals recommend receiving a Td booster every year.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
This vaccine protects against HPV, which causes most cervical cancers, anal cancers and genital warts. The CDC recommends this vaccine for women up to 26 years old, men up to 21 years old and men ages 22 through 26 in same-sex relationships.
Zoster/Varicella
Zoster protects against shingles and complications from the disease. Medical professionals recommend this vaccine for adults aged 50 and older. Varicella protects against the chickenpox. If you have not had this vaccine or are not immune to chickenpox, you should get two doses four weeks apart.
Pneumococcal (Pneumovax, PPSV, Prevnar, PCV)
This vaccines protects against pneumococcal disease, including infections in the lungs and bloodstream. Medical professionals recommend this vaccine for adults aged 65 and older and adults younger than 65 with certain chronic health conditions.
COVID-19
The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect you from severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The CDC that it is important to get the 2024-2025 vaccine if you are ages 65 and older, at high risk for severe COVID-19, or have never received a COVID-19 vaccine.
Hepatitis A or B (HepA/HepB)
If you are at risk for either virus infection or just want protection, you should get both. Individuals recieve HepA in two doses six to 12 months apart. HepB is given in three doses, usually over six months.
*Always consult your personal doctors about which vaccines are right for you and your family.
