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Immunizations for Adults

Many adults wrongly assume that the vaccines they received as children will protect them for the rest of their lives. Immunity can begin to fade over time, and aging can make us more likely to get a serious illness caused by an infection like the flu or pneumonia. In addition, there are specific immunizations recommended for older adults.

Below are a few adult immunizations you should be aware of. For more details and additional vaccination information, view the Immunizations for Adults flier from the Immunization Coalition.

Vaccines

  • Influenza (flu) — annually for all adults
  • Pneumococcal (pneumonia) — adults 65 and older (should be given at a younger age for people with some medical conditions)
  • Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Td or Tdap) — all adults, every 10 years (Tdap should be given one time, other boosters should be Td)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) — adults born in 1957 or later who have not already been immunized
  • HPV (Human papillomavirus) — females age 19-26 who have not already been vaccinated
  • Varicella (chickenpox) — adults not already immune
  • Zoster — adults age 60 and older who have not already received the vaccine

In addition, some adults in certain risk groups should receive Hepatitis A vaccine, Hepatitis B vaccine and/or meningococcal vaccine.
Keep a record of your vaccinations and talk with your doctor about them during your next office visit.

Download the Adult Wellness Guidelines or an immunization schedule from the CDC to keep on top of vaccinations.

This article is not meant to replace a doctor's advice. Be sure to talk to your doctor about immunizations you may need.

* Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; U.S. Food and Drug Administration; Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research