When most people think about vaccines, they probably think about childhood immunizations. But staying up to date on vaccinations is important throughout your entire life.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to review your vaccination history and talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about which vaccines you may need.
As we head toward fall and winter, when respiratory illnesses become more common, making sure your vaccinations are up to date can be an important part of protecting yourself and those around you.
Why Do Adults Need Vaccines?
Vaccines aren't just something you receive as a child and forget about.
Some vaccines require additional doses or boosters later in life, while others are recommended based on your age, health conditions, occupation, travel plans, or other risk factors.
Staying vaccinated can help protect you from serious illnesses and may also help reduce the spread of certain infections to people who are more vulnerable.
Vaccines Adults Should Know About
The vaccines recommended for adults vary depending on age and individual circumstances. Some commonly recommended vaccines include:
· Influenza (Flu)
o The flu vaccine is recommended every year for most people age 6 months and older
o Getting vaccinated each fall can help reduce your risk of influenza and its complications.
· COVID-19
o COVID-19 vaccination recommendations can change over time based on age, health status, and current public health guidance.
o Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about the current recommendations for you.
· Tdap and Td
o Adults should receive a Tdap vaccine if they haven't received one previously, followed by tetanus and diphtheria boosters as recommended.
o A Tdap or Td vaccine is generally recommended every 10 years, and additional vaccination may be recommended for certain wounds or during pregnancy.
· Shingles
o The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults 50 and older, as well as certain adults who are immunocompromised.
o Shingles can cause a painful rash and may lead to long-lasting nerve pain, so prevention is important.
· Pneumococcal Vaccine
o Pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against serious infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia and meningitis.
o Recommendations depend on age and certain medical conditions.
· RSV
o RSV can cause serious respiratory illness, particularly in older adults and certain other higher-risk individuals.
o Vaccination recommendations depend on age and individual risk factors, so ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist whether you're eligible.
· Hepatitis Vaccines
o Vaccines for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended for certain adults based on age, health conditions, lifestyle, occupation, travel, and other risk factors.
o Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help determine whether these vaccines are appropriate for you.
Vaccines Help Protect More Than Just You
Getting vaccinated isn't only about protecting yourself.
Vaccination can also help protect people around you who may be more vulnerable to serious illness, including:
- Infants
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- People with certain chronic health conditions
Keeping your vaccinations up to date is one way to contribute to a healthier community.
When Should You Review Your Vaccines?
You don't have to wait until you're sick—or until fall—to think about vaccinations.
Consider reviewing your vaccination history:
- During your annual wellness visit
- Before traveling
- When starting a new job
- Before flu season
- When you reach a new age-based vaccination milestone
- When you develop certain health conditions
If you're unsure which vaccines you've already received, your healthcare provider or pharmacist may be able to help you review your records.
Your Pharmacist Can Help
Your pharmacist can be an excellent resource for questions about adult immunizations.
We can help you understand:
- Which vaccines you may need
- When you're due for a booster
- Potential vaccine side effects
- How vaccines fit with your current medications
- Whether certain vaccines are recommended based on your age or health history
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Understanding your vaccines can help you feel more confident about protecting your health.
Get Ready for Fall
As summer comes to an end and fall approaches, now is a great time to make sure you're up to date on recommended vaccinations.
Vaccines aren't just for kids—they're an important part of preventive healthcare throughout adulthood.
Stop by our pharmacy or talk with your healthcare provider to review your immunization needs. A few minutes today could help protect your health for months and years to come.
Stay informed. Stay protected. And don't forget to ask about your vaccines! 💙💉