Immunization Schedule for Adults
Adults need vaccines too!
Whether you’re 18 or 81, you need vaccines throughout your life to stay healthy. Talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting your recommended adult vaccinations. Your doctor can suggest an immunization schedule after discussing your medical history and lifestyle.
Be the example for your friends, family and neighbors!
When you get vaccinated, you are protecting more than yourself and protecting those you love. Adult vaccinations can keep you healthy and even add years to your life! Encourage family, friends and neighbors to check with their doctors about what the proper adult immunization schedule is. When family and friends get vaccinated, it minimizes the spread of diseases.
Together, we can keep others from getting sick. Be the example, and talk to your doctor about recommended adult vaccination.
Which adult vaccinations do I need?
The following adult vaccines can protect you during your adult life. It is important to discuss your medical history, childhood vaccines, and certain medical conditions with your doctor.
- Seasonal Flu: All adults should receive the flu vaccine every year for flu prevention.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis: The Td vaccine is a combination of tetanus and diphtheria. All adults should receive a Td booster every 10 years or after a severe or dirty wound or burn. The Tdap vaccine combines tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (also known as whooping cough). Pregnant women in each of their pregnancies should receive the Tdap vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks to pass immunity to their child, adults may also receive the Tdap booster. It is important to protect babies and young children, such as grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and neighbors, from pertussis.
- Varicella Zoster Virus: Also known as shingles. If you had chickenpox you are at risk for developing shingles. The zoster vaccine is recommended for adults ages 60 years and older.
- Pneumococcal Pneumonia: PCV13 and PPSV23: PCV13 and PPSV23: There are two vaccines currently recommended depending on your vaccine history, age and medical conditions. Please consult with your doctor to establish an immunization schedule.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): The HPV vaccine is recommended for women up to age 26 and for men up to age 21. Immunocompromised (including those HIV positive) and men who have sex with men (MSM) can receive the vaccine through age 26.
Were you vaccinated as a child?
Some adults may not have received all of their childhood vaccines. Talk to your doctor or health care provider if you are unsure about your immunization history and adult vaccination. You may need the following vaccinations:
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella: The MMR vaccine is recommended for individuals who do not have any documentation of vaccination or laboratory blood work confirming immunity.
- Varicella: Also known as chickenpox. The chickenpox vaccine is recommended for adults who are not previously vaccinated and do not have any documentation of vaccination or laboratory blood work confirming immunity.
- Meningococcal: The meningitis vaccine is highly recommended for college aged students, military personnel, those with damaged or removed spleens, terminal complement deficiency and international travelers.
- Hepatitis A: This hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for adults who live in communities with high rates of hepatitis A, use street drugs, are international travelers, have long-term liver disease, and men who have sex with men (MSM).
- Hepatitis B: The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for adults who were not previously vaccinated and do not have any documentation of vaccination or laboratory blood work confirming immunity.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): The Hib vaccine might be given to adults before surgery to remove the spleen, following a bone marrow transplant, or for those with sickle cell disease or HIV/AIDS.
For more information on adult vaccines, view the Adult Vaccination Schedule.
